New Brunswick's Wildfire Season Kicks Off Early

0:00New Brunswick just kicked off wildfire season, way earlier than usual, thanks to no snow pack and super low rainfall. Last year alone, over 400 fires tore through the province, with one blaze north of Meramichi ballooning past 1400 hectares. To gear up, the government is dropping $6.7 million to turn 74 seasonal forest ranger jobs into full-time gigs, year round. They're also adding four new fireboss planes that scoop water straight from lakes and rivers. Premier Susan Holt says this set-up let crews train all winter, so they're primed for action right now in these dry conditions. Natural Resources Minister John Heron points out it's one of the driest winters in decades, with 10 straight months of below average rain. Officials are urging everyone to stay sharp, protect neighbors, and avoid risks to homes and communities. The province wants folks watching out for each other as things heat up. You can track burn bands and fire risks on the fire watch page, or the Daily Wildfire Dashboard,

1:01updated every afternoon at 2 p.m. for quick checks. Dial 186-645-88080, stay safe out there, New Brunswick. Stay informed with Vancouver News today, AI-powered updates. I'm Corey with the story.