Boreal Firestorm: Canada’s Ancient Forests Confront Climate Catastrophe

Boreal forests in Canada’s Northwest Territories have evolved to burn, but the increasing frequency of fires is putting ecosystems to the test.

Canada’s northern boreal forests, reliant on periodic fires for renewal, are facing challenges from increased fire frequencies and climate extremes. Satellites play a vital role in tracking these fires, many of which burn unchecked due to their remote locations. The combination of drought and record temperatures has intensified these fires, threatening the resilience of these crucial ecosystems.

Fire-Dependent Ecosystems of Northern Canada
The boreal forests of northern Canada have evolved to burn. These forests are dominated by black spruce, a type of evergreen that is not just tolerant of fire but dependent on it.