In the summer outlook released on Friday, meteorologists and research scientists suggested that although some regions have received more precipitation in recent months delaying the conditions favourable for wildfires—the fire risk is expected to increase as the summer progresses.

The outlook went on to explain that most of Canada experienced a cold and wet spring with a few brief warm ups.

A transition to El Niño is also expected to develop this summer, taking full effect later this year.

Bill Merryfield, a research scientist, explained we are not in El Niño yet.

“We’re not officially in El Niño because that requires the warming of the Pacific Ocean along the equator to be a certain amount above its average for several months running.”

Environment Canada said the increase in temperature leads to changes in the atmosphere circulation and weather patterns around the globe. These changes can impact food supplies, energy systems, and influence extreme climate, such as wildfire risk and a change in air-quality conditions.

Environment and Climate Change Canada urged the public to regularly monitor weather forecasts and the UV Index, as well as taking all weather alerts seriously.