What exactly are 'zombie' fires, and how are they affecting wildfires this spring?

The wildfire season is off to an early start in some parts of Canada — partially due to what are sometimes called "zombie fires" that have carried over from last year. Here's what we know about them.

What exactly are 'zombie' fires, and how are they affecting wildfires this spring?
Smoke rises from the snow in a forested area.

The wildfire season is off to an early start in some parts of Canada — partially due to what are sometimes called "zombie fires" that have carried over from last year. Here's what we know about them.