The current wildfire danger in the Fort McMurray forest area is High. There is a weak cold front moving from Jasper to Fort McMurray. Thunderstorms are expected to accompany front with a risk of hail, strong winds and heavy downpours. Further north a cold front from the Mackenzie Valley will move across the border into Alberta later this afternoon. This system will bring showers and thundershowers to the northern third of the province tonight.
There are currently 25 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 2 are being held, 19 are under control and 4 have been turned over to the responsible parties.
Since March 1, 2018, Alberta has recorded 887 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 39,239.39 hectares.
Make sure it's out! A campfire left smoldering can cause a wildfire. Never leave your campfire unattended and make sure it's out. Soak it with water, stir up the ashes and soak it again. A campfire is out when the ashes are cool to the touch.
OHV safety tips can be found here.
If you spot a wildfire, call 310-FIRE!
For more information:
Outside the Urban Service Area contact: Agriculture and Forestry at 780-743-7125
Lynn Daina, Wildfire Information Officer 780-743-7265