Rocky Mountain House Area Update

NOTE: Due to a server issue, the status map on the Alberta Wildfire App is not updating. Please use the wildfire status map on the Alberta Wildfire webpage for current locations. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and are working to resolve the issue.

WILDFIRE DANGER

The wildfire danger is now MODERATE across the Rocky Forest Area.

As a reminder, please do not leave your campfires unattended, and make sure they are fully extinguished before leaving them by soaking them, stirring the ashes, and soaking the ashes again to ensure they are cool to the touch before leaving the site. 

Due to continued hot and dry conditions, a fire advisory is in effect as of 10:00am on August 7, 2018 for the Rocky Forest Area.

• All fire permits are suspended
• No new permits will be issued
• Safe campfires are allowed

WILDFIRE SITUATION  |  August 13, 2018   |   10:00 a.m. 

Rocky Forest Area

• Skeleton Creek Wildfire (RWF-049): As of this morning, this wildfire is now listed as being held. This wildfire is burning along Skeleton Creek approximately 2 km northwest of Scalp Creek Natural Area. The wildfire is approximately 1,363 hectares in size. Alberta Wildfire is currently fighting this wildfire using helicopters and and heavy equipment. As a result of this wildfire, Clearwater Trail, Scalp Creek Trail and trail south of Lost Guide Lake are closed effective immediately. This wildfire did not experience significant growth today, as wet and cooler temperatures remain in the area.
• As a precaution, the Bighorn Campground was closed by Parks Canada on Friday. In addition, YMCA Camp Gray Jay voluntarily evacuated campers, staff and horses as a precaution. The southern edge of the wildfire is approximately 2 km northwest of the Scalp Creek Natural Area and 12 km northwest of the Red Deer River. The north edge is approximately 3.5 km south of the Clearwater River. This wildfire is not threatening any communities or roads.

• Porcupine Wildfire (RWF-045): This wildfire is located in the Siffleur Wilderness Area, and is being held. The wildfire is approximately 1,884 hectares in size. Alberta Agriculture and Forestry is working closely with Alberta Parks to manage this wildfire. This wildfire did not experience significant growth today, as wet and cooler temperatures remain in the area. There are no values at risk from this wildfire.

• Please note the Kootenay Ecological Reserve and Siffleur Wilderness Area are CLOSED due to proximity to the wildfire. The Siffleur Falls trailhead and staging area are OPEN to the public, but public access is limited up to the footbridge on the trail. Please visit Alberta Parks for alternative trail options.

• Since March 1, 2018 there have been 51 wildfires in the Rocky Forest Area that have burned a total of 3,255.59 hectares.

Provincial Situation

• There are currently 23 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 6 are being held, 14 are under control and 3 have been turned over to the responsible parties.
• Since March 1, 2018, Alberta has recorded 1,114 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 52,620.44 hectares. 

Smoke in the air

• If you are experiencing respiratory difficulties as a result of smoke, please visit Alberta Health Link or dial 811. Visit www.firesmoke.ca to view the most current smoke forecast. 
• For more information on road conditions, please visit https://511.alberta.ca/map.html. 

Alberta Emergency Alerts

• Alberta Emergency Alerts provides you with critical information about an immediate disaster, where it is occurring and what action you need to take. You can visit their website at http://www.emergencyalert.alberta.ca/ or download the Alberta Emergency Alerts (AEA) app for Apple or Android to stay up to date and in the know.