Fort McMurray Area Update

Fort McMurray Forest Area Wildfire Update - June 17, 2019

Posted on Mon, Jun 17, 2019

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The wildfire danger has increased to VERY HIGH in the Fort McMurray area and EXTREME in the Fort Chipewyan area. 

High temperatures and strong winds are forecast prior to a slow moving cold front passing through the area, bringing increased, shifting winds and the potential for thundershowers.

To view the area where smoke is coming from visit firesmoke.ca. For health related smoke issues, please visit  Alberta Health Services

The Fire Ban and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) restrictions within the Forest Protection Area of Alberta have been amended - they now apply to the High Level Forest Area, the majority of the Peace River Forest Area, and the upper portion of the Slave Lake Forest Areas. More information at: www.albertafirebans.ca 

Although the restrictions have been lifted firefighters continue to deal with large wildfires in other parts of the Forest Protection Area. 

Please be vigilant with campfires and never leave them unattended. SOAK the ashes, STIR them, and SOAK them again to make sure the fire is completely out.

When operating an OHV, clean any debris that has built up near the exhaust and muffler, under the seat, in wheel wells and around the engine. Always carry a small fire extinguisher, a collapsible shovel and water. These tools can help extinguish a wildfire and safely dispose of hot debris.

Current Situation

There are no active fires currently burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. To date there have been 26 fires in the forest area. All have been extinguished. 21 were human caused.

There are currently 23 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 4 are out of control, 4 are being held, 11 are under control and 4 have been turned over to the responsible parties. Since March 1, 2019, Alberta has recorded 609 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta that have burned a total of 727,207.64 hectares.

Fire lookouts are on high alert constantly watching for smoke, as well as patrols in helicopters. Various pieces of heavy equipment, air tankers, helicopters and firefighters are ready to respond to any new starts.


 If you spot a wildfire, call 310-FIRE! 


For more information on the wildfire situation across the province of Alberta

 

Fort McMurray area contacts:

Inside the Urban Service Area contact: Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo 780-743-7000 or 1-800-973-9663

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


Fort McMurray Information Officer

Phone: 780-799-9253

Email: lynn.daina@gov.ab.ca

 

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