A Fire Advisory remains in effect for the Edson Forest Area.
Alberta Wildfire, Yellowhead County and Parkland County are responding to multiple wildfires in the area.
Dry grass can catch easily and burn quickly. Any spark, hot exhaust or friction can cause a wildfire. Avoid working near or on dry vegetation to help prevent wildfires.
If you see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Firefighters used hand ignition techniques to burn off dead grass and remove available fuels to reinforce containment lines this morning (April 30, 2023 at 6:30 a.m.)
ACTIVE WILDFIRES
EWF017/WCU002 was detected on the evening of April 29 and is located on both sides of Highway 22, 3 km north of Highway 16. WCU002 is the wildfire on the east side of Hwy 22, EWF017 is located on the west side of Hwy 22. The wildfire is burning out of control and currently moving towards the west. Both wildfires combined are now estimated to be 3,000 ha in size. Strong winds and very dry fuel were the main reasons this wildfire spread so quickly. The fire burnt in a mixture of grass, shrub, trees and marsh.
Last night, dozers were on the fire line building containment lines. Early this morning, firefighters used hand ignition techniques to burn off and remove some of the available fuel to re-enforce existing containment lines.
Today, we will have additional heavy equipment and three helicopters assisting firefighters on the line. Both Yellowhead County and AB Wildfire will work together to contain the spread. Airtankers have also been requested and are available when needed.
The fire behaviour this morning is quiet but we expect it to increase near noon. The fire is expecting northeast winds of 20 km/h gusting to 40 this morning.
EWF015 was detected on April 29 and is located 3.5 km north east of Peers. It is now classified as being held and estimated to be 46.57 ha in size. Peers Area residents evacuated from Township Road 544 can return to their residences. The wildfire did not see very much wildfire behaviour last night and no new growth was recorded.
WCU001 was detected on April 29 and is burning out of control, located approximately 9 km southeast of Evansburg. AB Wildfire is assisting Parkland County. Heavy equipment is currently working on the fireline and additional firefighters and airtankers have been requested. The estimated size is currently 330 ha.
AB Wildfire, Parkland County and Yellowhead County are currently responding to multiple wildfires. To see these wildfires, visit our website and click on the interactive map to view active wildfires and their stats on the wildfire dashboard.
We urge everyone in this area to monitor Alberta Emergency Alert. There are evacuation orders and alerts in effect at this time. The municipalities will instruct the public regarding evacuation alerts or orders. To learn more, visit: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
For updates from Yellowhead County and evacuation information, please visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty Residents in the affected areas can contact the Yellowhead County Emergency Information Line at 1-833-334-4630.
For updates from Parkland County and evacuation information, please visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ParklandCountyAB. Residents in the affected areas can contact the Emergency Information Line at 1-780-968-8888.
For road closure information, please visit: https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts
If you have smoke related health concerns, please contact AB 811 click here for more information.
EDSON FOREST AREA WILDFIRE UPDATE
The wildfire danger in the Edson Forest Area remains HIGH due to dry vegetation, less snow coverage and very little precipitation. Dry grass can catch easily and burn quickly. Always keep watch of your surroundings and avoid work that can cause friction, hot exhaust or spark near dry vegetation.
Since January 1, 2023, there have been 19 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 3,051.20 ha.
Wildfires occasionally happen during winter conditions, be aware of your surroundings and ensure you always have sufficient firefighting equipment in case your fire escapes.
Visit our website and click on the interactive map to view active wildfires and their stats on the wildfire dashboard.
PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE
Since January 1, 2023 in the Forest Protection Area, there have been 227 wildfires burning a total of 3,774 ha.
A fire advisory remains in effect for the Edson Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area due to an abundance of dry fine fuels and expected warm temperatures. Dry grass and crops are very hazardous and will ignite easily. Use extreme caution when working and recreating outdoors.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are still valid but may be suspended or cancelled if dry conditions continue
- Fire permits will still be issued on a case by case basis
Prohibited:
- Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire, is prohibited
The fire advisory will remain in effect until fuel and weather conditions improve.
Stay tuned to www.albertafirebans.ca throughout the wildfire season for more information about fire bans and restrictions in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
WE URGE RESIDENTS AND RECREATIONALISTS TO USE EXTRA CAUTION
Due to the current dry grass, warm weather and possible windy conditions, there is an increased risk of wildfires in the Edson Forest Area. We urge residents and visitors to exercise caution and take the following precautions:
- Do not start any fires or use open flames in areas that are susceptible to catching fire, such as near dry vegetation like grass or wooded areas.
- Dispose of cigarettes and other smoking materials properly, do not throw them on the ground.
- If you see a wildfire, immediately call 310-FIRE (3473) and report the location of the fire.
- Avoid using equipment that could generate sparks, friction or flames, such as power tools or lawn mowers, in areas with dry vegetation.
- Ensure grinders and welders are properly maintained and used in areas that are free from dry vegetation. Have sufficient water and tools on hand. Always keep watch of your surroundings and look around at regular intervals for smoke or flames that may have been accidently ignited.
We encourage everyone to stay informed about the current wildfire risk and to follow any guidance or orders from emergency personnel. By working together and taking proactive steps, we can help reduce the risk of wildfires in our community.
WILDFIRE PREVENTION TIPS
Albertans are always asked to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors:
- Before you burn it, get your fire permit. Fire permits in Alberta.
- Clear debris from hot spots on your off-highway vehicle.
- Ensure your campfire is out - soak it, stir it, soak it again.
- Before you head out this weekend, check out the albertafirebans.ca website or download the app to stay informed.
ALBERTA WILDFIRE INFORMATION
- Subscribe to the Edson Forest Area wildfire update to receive an email when new information is posted.
- Download the Alberta Wildfire App for Apple and Android device.
- Join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.
For more information, please contact:
