An Unusual | Season

The year 2025 stood out for SOPFEU due to a wildfire distribution pattern that was the reverse of what is typically observed. The start of the season, marked by abundant rainfall, resulted in a number of fires three to four times below average. However, the situation shifted in the fall, with an exceptionally high number of fires caused by a prolonged drought.

In total, 527 wildfires were fought, burning 1,313.7 hectares within the intensive protection zone. This represents 65 more fires than the ten-year average. Nearly 70% of the wildfires occurred late in the season (August to October), mainly in southern Québec, where the precipitation deficit was particularly severe. This unusual distribution reflects a scenario opposite to that of a typical season.

It’s worth noting that 87% of fires this year were caused by human activity. Campfires alone accounted for 134 fires (25.4%), discarded cigarette butts caused 82 fires (15.6%), and debris burning led to 86 wildfires (16.3%). In the northern zone, SOPFEU recorded half the usual number of fires, with only 31 reported.