Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Area Update - October 3, 2023

Posted on Tue, Oct 03, 2023

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The wildfire danger for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is HIGH. A fire advisory remains in effect.

Wildfire Situation

There are currently nine wildfires burning in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. Since January 1, there have been 70 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area (GPFA), burning nearly 141,417 hectares. 

Strong northwest winds of 15-30 km/h, gusting to 40-50 km/h, are expected in the area overnight. Windy conditions can contribute to the spread of fires by carrying burning debris and embers over long distances, which can ignite new fires far from the original source. Fires in areas with plenty of dry vegetation, such as in a mature grassland or on a forest floor, will be difficult to control under windy conditions.

Firefighters remain on alert for new wildfires and continue to monitor existing ones. For more information on the current wildfire situation, visit Alberta Wildfire Status. 

For an accurate forecast of wildfire smoke, go to FIRESMOKE CANADA for hourly ground-level concentration of smoke particles from wildfires.

 

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GWF070 is classified as being held (BH) at 6.1 hectares. This wildfire is approximately 12 kilometers northwest of Tangent. This fire was detected October 2, 2023, firefighters with a helicopter and bucket were able to action this moderate surface fire. A fire guard is now complete around the perimeter of the fire using heavy equipment.

GWF066 is classified as Under Control (UC) at 12.9 hectares. This wildfire is approximately 10 kilometers northeast of Gundy. Firefighters have been working to extinguish this deep burning ground fire since it started September 17th. 

GWF018 is classified as under control (UC) at 49,328 hectares. It is being managed by the Peace River Forest Area. 

GWF019 is known as the Bald Mountain fire. It is classified as under control (UC) at 19,435 hectares. This wildfire is approximately 17 kilometers west of Highway 40.

GWF027 is classified as under control (UC) at 54,988 hectares.

GWF017 & GWF023 - Sturgeon Lake Complex (GCX001)

GWF017 is classified as under control (UC) at 5,479 hectares. 

GWF023 is classified as under control (UC) at 3,889 hectares.

GWF035 & GWF038 - Boone Lake Complex (GCX002)

GWF035 is located 20 km north of Valhalla Center, near the northeast side of Boone Lake. This wildfire is 872 hectares in size and is classified as under control (UC). 

GWF038 is located 10 km west of Deadwood Lake, in Township 77-10. This wildfire is 7,148 hectares and classified as under control (UC).

Fire Advisory banner

A FIRE ADVISORY is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area.
 
Due to above seasonal temperatures with dry and windy conditions. Current fire permits remain valid.  Any new fire permits may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
 
Prohibited:
 
Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire, is prohibited.
 
Allowed:
  • Safe wood campfires *
  • Backyard fire pits
  • Portable propane fire pits
  • Gas or propane stoves and barbecues
  • Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
*Safe wood campfires - should be within a metal, brick, or rock fire ring. They are required to:
a)  be on rock, gravel, sand, or another non-combustible surface that extends at least one metre around the fire;
b)  have a responsible person in attendance to keep fire under control at all times and extinguish before leaving;
c)  have on hand enough water on site to extinguish the fire. Safe wood campfires on private lands include private land campgrounds and private land recreation areas; and
d)  Municipalities, Parks and protected areas may have additional fire safety requirements.
 
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished. If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.

To view a map of the fire advisory area visit www.albertafirebans.ca

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. Firefighters thank you for your cooperation.

HUNTING SEASON

Hunting season has begun in areas across Alberta. Hunters, please ensure cooking and warming fires are completely extinguished.  Keep campfires in safe, non-combustible soils and when you're done with the campfire remember to soak it, stir it and soak it again until it's cool to the touch.  

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When using any type of machinery including off-highway vehicles take the following precautions:

  • Clear debris from moving parts.

  • Check your muffler.

  • Keep the equipment in good repair.

  • Avoid operating equipment in tall grass.

  • Keep watch of your surroundings.

Always carry firefighting equipment on board, a fire extinguisher, axe, shovel and a receptacle filled with at least five litres of water.  

2022 OHV Can cause wildfires Dirt Bike

Wildfire Information

Download the Alberta Wildfire app today and get access to real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on reporting wildfire, fire bans and fire updates across the province and much more all on your mobile device.

Available for Apple and Android.

For information contact:

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer
(780) 832-7235

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Access Alberta Wildfire Info

Report Wildfires
310-FIRE (3473)
© 2022 Government of Alberta