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This report examines how increased wildfire frequency and severity, driven by climate change, is causing rising levels of evacuation and displacement. Using the 2024 wildfires in Jasper, Canada as a case study, the analysis combines data on wildfire trends with personal narratives of displaced residents to spotlight the human and systemic consequences.

Key findings show that many evacuees faced poor communication, psychological distress, difficulties accessing aid, and long-term instability even when their homes survived. The report argues that current emergency response and support systems are inadequate for a future where climate disasters become more common.

It recommends urgent investments in prevention (e.g. fire-resilient housing, vegetation management), improved disaster communication and evacuation planning, and stronger community-led recovery mechanisms, all informed by real lived experiences.

Ultimately, the report calls for a shift: from reacting to disasters to preparing proactively, building resilience in at-risk communities, and centring social justice as climate impacts worsen.

A research project by Kate Rowbottom for Our World Too