CURRENT CONDITIONS IN THE CALGARY FOREST AREA
Cooler temperatures combined with rain and snow have contributed to a drop in the fire danger rating. Areas of exposed dead and dry grass will continue to pose a real danger for spring wildfires. Until green up starts in mid-May, the wildfire danger will be very dependent on the short-term weather. The fire danger remains low in snow covered areas and at higher elevations.
WILDFIRES IN THE CALGARY FOREST AREA
Over the past week, two wildfires (CWF-008, CWF-009) were reported in the Calgary Forest Area. CWF-008 was extinguished at 0.2 ha and remains under investigation. CWF-009 is classified as Under Control at 17 ha and was caused by an incendiary device. 
CWF-009 Detected on April 3, 2021
The Devil’s Head Wildfire (CWF-156) from the 2020 wildfire season is classified as under control at 2420 ha. It is located in a remote area of the Don Getty Wildland Provincial Park. When appropriate, this wildfire will be scanned for any active areas and actioned accordingly.
Burned areas should be avoided as they present a safety hazard due to standing dead or damaged trees that can fall without warning.
EXPLODING TARGETS
Since 2017, the use of fireworks and exploding targets within the Forest Protection Area has been prohibited without written permission from a Forest Officer. This permission is required year-round.
For additional information visit our website https://wildfire.alberta.ca/prevention/exploding-targets.aspx
Exploding targets have caused two wildfires this season and Peace Officers/RCMP have issued $600 tickets to the responsible parties.
FIRE PERMITS
As of March 1, fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. By getting a permit you help keep our firefighters free to fight real wildfires instead of responding to the smoke in your backyard. Fire permits are free and can be requested from the Calgary Forest Area office by calling 403-297-8800.
NEW WILDFIRE APP!
Did you know Alberta Wildfire just launched a brand new app to keep you up-to-date with the wildfire situation in the province? Download the new app today and get access to accurate, real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on fire advisories, restrictions and bans across the province and much more. Available for Apple and Android.
WILDFIRE STATISTICS IN THE FOREST PROTECTION AREA
Since our last report on March 29, 2021 at 10 a.m., there have been 11 new wildfires recorded in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
- One of these wildfires is being held, six have been turned over to the responsible parties and four have been extinguished.
- There are currently nine wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. One of these wildfires is being held, one is under control and seven have been turned over to the responsible parties.
Historical wildfire statistics (as of 10:00 a.m. April 6, 2021):
|
|
5 Year Average March 1 to Today’s Date (2016/2020) |
Last Year March 1 to Today’s Date (2020) |
This Year March 1 to Today’s Date (2021) |
|
Number of Wildfires |
37 |
4 |
36 |
|
Area Burned (ha) |
72.24 |
0.13 |
36.26 |
Area Burned numbers may fluctuate as size estimates are updated with more accurate GPS information.
Unless conditions change, you can expect the next update on April 12, 2021.
MORE INFORMATION:
Calgary Forest Area Information Officer
403-818-0938
io.calgary@gov.ab.ca
RELATED INFORMATION
Websites:
- Alberta Wildfire
- Alberta Fire Bans
- FireSmart in Alberta
- Alberta Emergency Alerts
- Air Quality Health Index
- Wildfire Smoke and Your Health
- 511 Road Reports
- Emergency Preparation
Social Media:
