Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Forest Area Wildfire Update - September 6, 2024

Posted on Fri, Sep 06, 2024

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The wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is now VERY HIGH.

Warm weather and windy conditions have increased the wildfire risk for the Grande Prairie Forest Protection Area (FPA).  Residents and visitors to the area are encouraged to be extra careful and take steps to prevent wildfires.

Smoke from wildfires in British Columbia is blowing into Grande Prairie Forest area. Firesmoke.ca is an online tool that tracks wildfire smoke. Visit firesmoke.ca to view where the smoke is coming from and how long it is expected to stick around. If you have health related concerns, please call Health Link at 811.

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Wildfire Situation

So far this year, 100 wildfires have been reported in the Grande Prairie Forest Area, burning nearly 410 hectares. Of the 100 wildfires, four are listed as under control, all others have been extinguished. 

Tomorrow's fire weather forecast calls for very easy burning conditions in fine flashy fuels. Humidity in the low 20's with temperatures in the upper 20's will cause crossover conditions. This happens when temperature and relative humidity intersect or cross indicating very dry air and severe fire behavior. A fire started in these conditions will spread quickly and become difficult to control. 

Firefighters urge everyone to use caution when working or recreating in the outdoors, as a fire can ignite easily and will spread quickly. Fire permit holders must postpone burning when winds will exceed the safe burning conditions outlined on the fire permit. Firefighters in helicopters and airtankers are ready to respond to any new wildfires that may start.
 

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Fire Permits

During wildfire season, you are required to have a fire permit to burn within the Forest Protection Area (FPA), with the exception of a campfire. 

Do not burn during windy conditions. You must evaluate the weather at your specific location and follow the conditions on your permit. You are responsible if a fire escapes the burn permit area.  Albertans can request a free fire permit by contacting their local forestry office or using the online Fire Permit Portal. Contact your local fire guardian or visit a Forestry office for a permit.

Spirit River                      (780) 814 1983

Valleyview                       (780) 524 6576

County West                   (780) 814 1648

Thank you for doing your part to prevent wildfires. If you spot a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.

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Wildfire Prevention

Sparks and friction from operating farm equipment or hot exhaust on an off-highway vehicle can produce enough heat to dry out caught-up debris. The hot fuels can then drop off and smolder and ignite into a wildfire. When operating equipment clear debris from moving parts. Always check your muffler and keep equipment in good repair. Do not operate equipment in tall grass and always ensure you have sufficient firefighting equipment and water available.


When wildfire danger is low to moderate, updates will be issued weekly. However, when the danger escalates to high or extreme levels, updates will be provided daily if fires are active and/or out of control. Expect your next wildfire update on September 7, 2024, unless conditions change.

 

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832-7235

 

 

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