Fort McMurray Area Update

Fort McMurray Forest Area Wildfire Update - September 3, 2017

Posted on Sun, Sep 03, 2017

gfx-hsb-wildfiredangerupdate-high.jpg

Gusting winds have the fire hazard currently listed as HIGH in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. The hazard is expected to increase as hot and dry weather persist into the week. Click here to view today's wildfire danger map. Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 

Wildfires of Note:

SWF-107 - This wildfire is located about 112 km northwest of Fort McMurray in the Slave Lake Forest Area and is currently out of control. It is estimated to be 8,158 hectares in size and airtankers will be working the wildfire tonight and tomorrow.

Please be aware that winds in the area are about 38 km/hr, gusting to 48 km/hr. This is pushing smoke into the Fort McMurray area.


FBS_HubSpotBanner_Advisory_400x70_RGB.jpg 

Due to current and forecast weather, a Fire Advisory has been issued for the Fort McMurray Forest Area section of the Forest Protection Area.

Under this advisory, no new fire permits will be issued. All existing permits for incinerators and burn barrels will remain active, though we ask people to refer to the conditions on their permit before burning.

Allowed:

  • Safe wood campfires in campgrounds (within fire rings) or random camping areas
  • Charcoal briquettes
  • Portable propane fire pits
  • Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
  • Catalytic or infrared-style  
Remember to check the hot spots on your Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) and remove debris before and after use. Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again until it's cool to the touch to ensure it is fully extinguished. 

Wildfire Situation Reports

Since March 1, 2017 there have been 90 fires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. There are currently three wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. All three remain under control. There is no threat to community or infrastructure.

Provincially, there are currently 21 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Two wildfires are out of control, seven are being held, ten are under control and two have been turned over to the responsible parties.

Since March 1, Alberta has recorded 1,122 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 25,308.25 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 


Lynn Daina

Information Officer

mobile: 780-799-9253

wildfire.alberta.ca 

 

Subscribe to Fort McMurray Area Updates