The wildfire hazard is EXTREME for the Lac La Biche Area.
The wildfire on the Cold Lake Weapons Range remains out of control at 8200 hectares (more info below). We had one new fire in the Tucker Lake area today, which is extinguished. We have five other fires in the area that are under control and on patrol status. There are several other large fires in the province (Wabasca, High Level) which means resources are at a premium.
LWF 122 (Cold Lake Weapons Range): The fire crossed the Ken Baker Road today, moving westward. Ignition was occuring along Loseman Creek. The south flank of the fire held well today, with dozer crews and air support. The fire column has subsided this evening, however the fire is smoked in which complicates suppression activity planned for this evening. Conditions allowing, dozers will work through the night to keep building the guard on the east flank of the fire, and block in today's new growth along that side. Fire spread is likely overnight and tomorrow, given the extreme weather conditions. There is no precip in the forecast, and winds are predicted to increase in a couple of days. Tomorrow's winds for the fire are variable from SW to NW 10-15km. The very hot and dry conditions coupled with the threat of isolated lightning means the critical firefighting situation will continue tomorrow.
There are 19 helicopters, airtankers, over 200 staff and firefighters, 6 cat units, 4 water trucks, 2 Type 6 Engines and other equipment working the fire. Your next update on this fire will be published tomorrow by noon with an updated map.
The Rest of the Area: We currently have 20 crews, 15 helicopters, three cat units, five water trucks and various other heavy equipment working across the area. We have had 124 wildfires in the area this season.
The forecast for tomorrow is for more of the same hot, dry conditions with a temp of 27, humidity of 25% and winds at W15. There is no precipitation in the forecast however there is a chance of lightning, which we will be monitoring.
If you see smoke or fire in the forest, please call 310-FIRE. In the meantime, please no burning. Our resources are all needed on the province's existing forest fires!
For more information, please contact:
Leslie Lozinski
Forest Information Officer
780-623-9758