Lac La Biche Area Update

EXTREME Wildfire Hazard: Fire Advisory and Fire Restriction

Posted on Thu, May 21, 2015

gfx-hsb-wildfiredangerupdate-extremeThe forest is extremely dry and volatile.  The wildfire hazard is EXTREME.  

Exercise extreme caution when working or playing in the forest area for the next several days.  The extremely dry conditions means sparks can cause immediate wildfire ignition, fires will dig into the dry ground, and fires will be difficult to contain and control.

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 26, low humidity of 15% and winds at E10.  There is no precipitation in sight through until next week.  Although the winds are very slack, even minor shifts in wind direction or wind speed can create a dangerous situation with flashy surface fuels.  Fortunately winds are predicted to remain fairly light and we haven't had any lightning. 

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There is a FIRE ADVISORY in place for the majority of the area.  This means no burning.  All permits have been suspended until conditions improve.  You can still have a campfire if you keep it small and under control. Soak it before you leave it.

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There is a FIRE RESTRICTION in place for the MD of Lesser Slave Lake (which includes the western part of the Lac La Biche area around Smith, Fawcett and Flatbush) and the MD of Opportunity (which includes areas north of Calling Lake including Rock Island Lake).  A FIRE RESTRICTION means no burning, and no campfires unless they are in campgrounds.  Wood campfires in backcountry or random camping areas, charcoal briquettes, turkey fryers, tiki torches and fireworks are prohibited.

Visit albertafirebans.ca for more information.  There are several fire restrictions in place across the northwest part of the Province.

Fortunately we had no new fires today within our area.  We have resources assisting on two new fires outside the Forest Protection Area (Frog Lake and Saddle Lake).  

We have 21 crews, 13 helicopters, two airtanker groups (see photo below), cat units, water trucks, and other heavy equipment positioned across the area.

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Thanks for doing your part to prevent wildfire.

For more information please contact:

Leslie Lozinski

Forest Information Officer

780-623-9758