The world feels a little warmer these days, literally. As global temperatures keep creeping up, so do the risks of devastating wildfires. We've seen the headlines: fires tearing through parts of Greece, Spain, and U.S. states like California, wiping out homes, forests, and landscapes people have loved for generations. In Greece, some families had no choice but to escape into the sea as flames closed in on coastal towns like Patras and the islands of Zakynthos and Chios. In Spain, heatwaves sparked fires in seven different regions. And in California, thousands have been forced from their homes as wildfires ripped through dry terrain.
This isn’t just happening “over there.” It’s happening right here in Canada.
Wildfires have swept through Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland & Labrador this year, and they’re part of a bigger pattern. Canada is warming at twice the rate of the global average, and the impact is becoming impossible to ignore (Government of Canada, 2019).
Last year, wildfires burned through a staggering 16.5 million hectares of land across the country—an area bigger than Greece—making 2023 our worst wildfire season ever recorded. While 2025 hasn’t reached the catastrophic levels of last year—so far—it’s already among the top five worst fire seasons, with over 5.3 million hectares burned (Canadian Climate Institute, 2025)
That brings us to Newfoundland & Labrador.
People in those communities are still trying to recover—emotionally, physically, and financially—from the devastation caused by the wildfires. Many families have had to evacuate, some more than once, and the full impact is still unfolding. In response, the Canadian Red Cross has launched the 2025 Newfoundland & Labrador Wildfires Appeal, with teams already helping on the ground: offering shelter, emergency supplies, hygiene kits, and emotional support. But recovery isn’t quick. It takes time. And help. A lot of it.
If you’re thinking of donating, here’s something worth knowing: at least 92 cents of every dollar goes directly toward helping people. The rest covers essential admin and fundraising which the Canadian Red Cross promises will never be more than 8%.
And it's not just Newfoundland & Labrador feeling the heat. In Manitoba, wildfires have burned through more than 275,000 hectares, displacing entire communities. Saskatchewan has seen even worse, with over 850,000 hectares lost—well above the seasonal norm, and well into what used to be considered the “off-season”.
So… how can you help?
Here’s what makes a real difference:
Donate to the Newfoundland & Labrador Wildfires Appeal. Even $10 helps someone take a step toward safety and stability.
Can’t donate right now? No worries, you can still be part of the solution:
- Share this appeal on social media or with friends.
- Talk to your circle about how climate change is driving more extreme weather.
- Get involved in local emergency preparedness efforts.
- Attend safety workshops in your area.
- Speak up about climate policies at the municipal level.
These fires are more than just breaking news. They’re real lives, real loss, and real opportunities for us to show up.
Behind every wildfire is a family trying to find safety. A volunteer offering a warm blanket. A neighbour helping rebuild. When we act with compassion, we don't just fight fires, we help people find their way back to something like normal.
Let’s be that help.
Click here to find more charities committed to fighting environmental crises and the effects of global warming.
