The current wildfire danger in the forest area is Extreme.
An intense surface low pressure system is now developing to the east of the Grande Prairie zone and will track northward, then swing into the east boreal forest this afternoon. Widespread thunder storms, and rain with hail along the front are anticipated. Winds are expected to be SE 30 - 35, gusting to 50 km in the Fort Chipewyan area and SE 15-W 15 km in the Fort McMurray area.
There are currently 70 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 5 are out of control, 21 are being held, 38 are under control and 6 have been turned over to the responsible parties.
Our firefighters have been working hard to contain these wildfires. With so many lightning-caused fires occurring in such a short period of time in the Boreal region, it is important to limit human-caused wildfires. Please continue to use caution when in the forested areas, and always extinguish your fire.
Since March 1, 2018, Alberta has recorded 831 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 32,747.71 hectares.
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.
OHV safety tips can be found here.
If you spot a wildfire, call 310-FIRE!
For more information:
Outside the Urban Service Area contact: Agriculture and Forestry at 780-743-7125
Lynn Daina, Wildfire Information Officer 780-743-7265