Fort McMurray Area Update

Fort McMurray Forest Area Wildfire Update - August 19

Posted on Sat, Aug 19, 2017

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Strong, gusty winds expected

Today's forecast is calling for sustained westerly winds in the 30 km/h range, as well as gusts up to 55 km/h. Higher winds such as these can greatly affect how quickly a wildfire can spread once ignited, so we ask everyone to use extra caution, and if you see smoke, please report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473).

Wildfire Danger

Current Wildfire Danger: The current wildfire danger is VERY HIGH in the Fort McMurray area and EXTREME north of Lake Athabasca. Click here to view today's wildfire danger map.

Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 


Wildfire Situation Reports

Since March 1, 2017 there have been 86 fires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. There are currently nine wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, all nine are under control.

Provincially, there are currently 32 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Five wildfires are out of control, eight are being held, 14 are under control and five have been turned over to the responsible parties.

Since March 1, Alberta has recorded 1,045 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 18,545.66 hectares. 

Stay current on Alberta's wildfire situation, download the Alberta Wildfire mobile app for Android or Apple  products. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.


Forest and Prairie Protection Act | Legislative and Regulatory Changes

The Alberta government is committed to protecting Albertans and their communities from the threat of wildfire. Many wildfires are caused by human-activity, approximately 70% over the past 6 years, and are 100 per cent preventable.

Last fall legislation was passed to enhance wildfire prevention, to deter risky behaviour and give wildland firefighters more tools to keep Albertans and their communities safe.

For complete details click here.

Stay current on Alberta's wildfire situation, download the Alberta Wildfire mobile app for Android or Apple  products. You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Alberta Wildfire Blog: blog.wildfire.alberta.ca

CONTACTS

Inside the Urban Service Area contact: Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo 780-792-5519 

Outside the Urban Service Area contact: Agriculture and Forestry at 780-743-7125 


Leah Lovequist

Provincial Information Officer

mobile: 780-420-1968

wildfire.alberta.ca 

 

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