This summer, Canada is once again on fire. Thousands have been evacuated. Smoke drifting south is exacerbating tensions between Canada and the U.S. government. And things are likely to get worse.

The upcoming El Niño might lead to new records in wildfires and disruptive weather in 2027. As the impacts of climate change intensify, the Canadian government has a unique opportunity to transform how the country responds to the new normal of smoke-filled summers, intense heatwaves, all-year flash floods, frequent tornadoes and deep freezes.

Experts warn that change is required. A recent parliamentary committee report and Senate report criticized flaws in Canada’s approach to disaster management. Key concerns include the lack of federal involvement, particularly in disaster prevention and the under-funding of local programs.

Similar issues were raised in a 2008 Senate report on disaster management in Canada, and the 2013 and 2022 Auditor General reports reviewing the federal government’s role in First Nations disaster management. A 2022 review of the federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program also found that there needs to be better integration of, and investment in, climate adaptation and disaster risk reduction across federal programs.

In Canada, preventing disasters and responding to them is currently, in theory, a provincial and territorial responsibility. But they generally transfer this responsibility to local authorities, which often lack the necessary authority, administrative tools and resources.

When disasters overwhelm the capacities of cities, provinces and territories, they can call on the Canadian Armed Forces for support. But........

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