Preventing wildfires is a shared responsibility
The wildfire danger is VERY HIGH in the Fort McMurray forest area. Moisture levels continue to decline. As we move through the long weekend high temperatures and low humidity will escalate the drying of our vegetation. Crossover conditions are expected, meaning the relative humidity will be the same as, or lower than, the temperature. This may impact the danger rating. Dead, dry grass will ignite easily and spread quickly. There is no precipitation forecast for the weekend. Extreme caution is advised for all heavy equipment and OHV operators in the forested areas.
Ride debris free! An off-highway vehicle exhaust can reach temperatures of over 200 degrees Celsius. That means it won't take long for that wet and muddy debris to dry up, start smouldering and fall to the ground as you drive away. You can help prevent a wildfire by stopping frequently to remove any build-up of debris from the hot spots on your machine.
Make sure it's out! A campfire left smoldering can cause a wildfire. Never leave your campfire unattended and make sure it's out. Soak it with water, stir up the ashes and soak it again. A campfire is out when the ashes are cool to the touch.
- FIRE ADVISORY IN EFFECT as of 0900 HRS. May 9
A Fire Advisory has been issued for the Fort McMurray Forest Area due to dry and windy conditions. Previous burning sites should be checked to ensure they are fully extinguished. No new fire permits will be issued.
What is 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 heaters - Remember to check the hot spots on your Off-Highway Vehicle and remove debris before and after use. Never leave a campfire unattended.
- The Fire Advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
If you spot a wildfire, call 310-FIRE!
WILDFIRE SITUATION May 20, 2018
Fort McMurray Forest Area Situation
Since March 1, 2018 there have been 11 wildfires that have burned approximately 4 hectares. 10 have been extinguished. One remains under control. MWF-011 is Under Control on Gregoire Lake (Willow Lake) island. 17 firefighters and 2 Environment and Parks with a boat are actioning the fire. No values at risk are threatened.
Provincial Situation
There are currently 14 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 7 wildfires are under control, and 7 wildfires have been turned over to the responsible parties. Two of the wildfires classified as under control are those that were actioned prior to the current wildfire season and are still being monitored.
Agriculture and Forestry is currently assisting with 3 wildfires outside of the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
Since March 1, 2018 Alberta has recorded 320 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 1,335.66 hectares.
For more information on the wildfire situation across the province of Alberta