The wildfire danger continues to be EXTREME in the Lac La Biche forest area.
The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 20 degrees, low humidity of 15%, and winds NW 20 gusting to 40 km/hr. There is no precipitation expected. The winds continue to dry the forest. Any fires that start tomorrow will spread quickly and be difficult to control. Avoid burning tomorrow due to the strong winds. Avoid operating quads in dry grass.
The FIRE ADVISORY remains in place. Although campfires are still allowed, exercise caution - keep campfires small, under control, and supervised at all times. Have water on hand to soak the fire before you leave it - Soak it, Stir the ashes, Soak it again.
We had one new wildfire today bringing us to a total of 74 wildfires this season. This fire is Being Held. We sent resources to assist with three wildfires outside of the Forest Protection Area today. The airtankers, our aerial and ground crews, and helicopters with buckets were able to help Westlock County and the MD of Bonnyville to protect homes and communities at risk from wildfire. We were also able to provide the Elizabeth Metis Settlement with consultation about their fast-travelling wildfire.
We have 14 crews, the airtankers, 10 helicopters, 8 water trucks and 3 dozer groups on hand to fight wildfires tomorrow.
The photo below is of one of our airtankers dropping a load of retardant to help contain and slow the spread of the wildfire this afternoon. If you look carefully you can see one of the airtankers dropping the red tinted retardant, and another tanker behind him, just approaching the smoke area.
It was a busy day across the area, and we expect tomorrow and Monday could be the same. With no precipitation in the forecast, low humidity and drying winds, we are facing EXTREME wildfire danger. Fires that start will spread quickly, will be difficult to control and can be dangerous for our crews. Please do your part to prevent wildfire, so no one is endangered.
For more information, please contact:
Leslie Lozinski
Wildfire Information Officer
780-623-9758