Trends in Canada’s Physical Events: Wildfires, Flooding, and Glacial Retreat

Patterns and Trends in Canada’s Physical Environment

Table of Contents

• Distribution of Geologic and Meteorological Hazards
• Frequency and Severity Trends
• Analysis Questions
• Check for Understanding

Distribution of Geologic and Meteorological Hazards

Canada’s vast landscape is shaped by dynamic processes. Earthquakes are primarily concentrated in the tectonically active West Coast (British Columbia), the St. Lawrence Valley, and parts of the Arctic. Tornadoes, while once thought rare, show distinct corridors in Southern Ontario and the Prairies. Landslides are prevalent in the sensitive Leda clay deposits of the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Valleys, while avalanches are a constant risk in the steep terrain of the Western Cordillera. Ice storms remain a significant risk for Eastern Canada, particularly the St. Lawrence lowlands.

Map of Canada

Map of Canada highlighting physical hazard zones

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Frequency and Severity Trends

Climate change is intensifying several physical phenomena. We are observing an increased frequency of wildfires in British Columbia, northern Ontario, and Quebec due to longer, drier summers. Glacial recession is accelerating across both the Western Cordillera and the Arctic, leading to long-term shifts in hydrological cycles. Additionally, urban areas are facing more frequent flooding due to a combination of increased high-intensity rainfall events and the loss of permeable surfaces. While approximately 4,000 earthquakes are recorded annually across the country, the vast majority are too small to be felt. 

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Analysis Questions

Hurricanes: In which regions and at what times of year are hurricanes most common in Canada? How are hurricane patterns changing over time? How might climate change impact the frequency of hurricanes in eastern Canada?

Most common in late summer and autumn in Atlantic Canada. Climate change is warming sea-surface temperatures, which may increase the intensity and northward penetration of these storms.

Tornadoes: How might the frequency and distribution of tornadoes shift in the future, given changes to global climate patterns?

Current models suggest that as the climate warms, the energy available for severe storm development, i.e. Convective Available Potential Energy (CAPE) may increase, potentially shifting the geographic distribution of tornado corridors.

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Check for Understanding

1. Which region in Canada is most susceptible to landslides due to Leda clay deposits?

The St. Lawrence and Ottawa Valleys.

2. What is a primary driver of increased wildfire frequency in northern Canada?

Longer, hotter, and drier summer seasons linked to climate change.

3. Where do the most frequent earthquakes in Canada occur?

The West Coast (British Columbia) and the St. Lawrence Valley.