The wildfire hazard for the Lac La Biche area has climbed back to HIGH.
The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 24 degrees with humidty of 35%, high chance of lightning and shifting winds at SW20/NW20 Gusting to 40 km/hr. Strong and gusting winds tomorrow mean any new wildfires that start will spread quickly. Warm temperatures and winds will continue to increase the wildfire hazard as the week progresses.
We had one new fire last night. The fire was started by a baler and spread to a hay field. The fire has been extinguished. Baler fires are more common than you might think at this time of year. Every season there are a few fields or swaths that go up in flames as a result of hot bearings or sparks from farm equipment. Take time to stop every few rounds and see how hot your equipment is. Carrying a fire extinguisher can limit damage to expensive equipment or could help prevent losing a field.
This afternoon we saw a status change from Being Held to Under Control for LWF 175. All 10 active fires in the area are now classified as Under Control. Way to go firefighters! It's been over two months since we've been in this position. Thanks for the hard work everyone.
We have 12 crews, 6 helicopters and the airtankers ready to fight any new wildfires in the area.
Just a reminder that you require a fire permit for any burning other than a campfire. This includes fireworks. Permits are available free of charge from your local Agriculture and Forestry Office.
Thanks for doing your part to prevent wildfire.
For more information, please contact:
Leslie Lozinski
Forest Information Officer
780-623-9758