The wildfire hazard for Monday is VERY HIGH. Warmer temperatures, lower humidity and lighter winds mean the potential for wildfires in the Lac La Biche area is VERY HIGH.
The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 17, humidity of 30%, winds SE15 and no precipitation. The forecast for the week is for increasingly warmer temps, less humidity and light winds. There is no precipitation in the forecast. The northern part of the area will be warmer and drier than the rest of the area. Diminishing winds means fires that start should not spread as quickly as when winds are stronger, however the warmer temps and dry air means fine fuels on the ground will dry out further and be very succeptible to wildfire. Be particularly mindful of the wildfire hazard in the forest for the rest of this week.
We had three new fires today. LWF 115, in the northern part of the region, is under control at 2 hectares. LWF 116, southwest of Sand River and south of Lakeland Recreation Area, is being held at approximately 2.5 hectares. The other fire is extinguished. We have four fires from earlier in the season that are still active, including LWF 111 that started yesterday. This fire is under control at 5 hectares and there is heavy equipment working on it.
We have 15 crews, 13 helicopters, airtankers, cat units, water trucks and other heavy equipment deployed across the area.
The Fire Advisory remains in place. No unnecessary burning. Permits are not being issued at this time. Existing permits are valid - make sure to follow the conditions outlined on the back of the permit. Campfires are allowed. Keep campfires small and under control and make sure to extinguish them before you leave. An innocent looking campfire can turn into a wildfire under the right weather conditions.
Pay attention to grass and debris that builds up on quads and OHVs. Clean machines frequently to keep this debris from heating, drying out, smouldering and falling to the ground to start a wildfire. Take the same path out of the forest that you took to get in, and check your path for signs of smoke or fire.
If you see a fire, call 310-FIRE. Your quick call means we can get to the fires faster.
Thanks for doing your part to prevent wildfire.
For more information, please call,
Leslie Lozinski
Forest Information Officer
780-623-9758