Grande Prairie Area Update (53)

The wildfire danger in the Grande Prairie Forest Area is HIGH

High temperatures, lower humidity, and wind are increasing the fire danger. Gusty winds are expected to continue. High winds can cause extreme fire behavior and allow fires to grow rapidly.

Fire permit holders, please remember to check the weather forecast before initiating any burning activities. This precaution ensures that you'll adhere to the safe burning conditions outlined on your fire permit.

Wildfire information

Since January 1, 2024, 36 wildfires have been reported in the Grande Prairie Forest Area burning nearly 176 hectares. Today, two wildfires were started in the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

GWF035 is located 9 kilometers south of Gordondale and is listed as being held at 0.04 hectares , this wildfire is currently under investigation.

GWF 036 is located 9 kilometers south west of Gordondale and is listed as being held at 0.02, this wildfire is currently under investigation.

2023 carryover wildfires

There is currently one carryover fire still from the 2023 wildfire season. GWF-018 2023 is listed as under control. Areas of this wildfire have remaining hotspots and are being monitored by firefighters.

Fireworks and exploding targets create hot debris when they are detonated, which can cause a wildfire when it lands in vegetation, like dry grass or brush. Albertans who plan on setting off fireworks in the Forest Protection Area (FPA), must get written permission from a Forest Officer at your local forest area office Anyone who sets off fireworks without written permission could face a fine of $600.
Fireworks fact sheet.

Smoke from wildfires in the northern areas of the province and British Columbia may push south. Firesmoke.ca is an online tool that tracks wildfire smoke. Visit this site to view where the smoke is coming from and how long it is expected to linger. If you have health related concerns, please call Health Link at 811.

Fire permits

Albertans can request a free fire permit by contacting your local forestry office or using the new, convenient online Fire Permit Portal. Anyone living outside the FPA can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.

County West / Grovedale - (780) 814-1648
Spirit River - (780) 814-1983
Valleyview - (780) 524-6576

View a video about fire permits by clicking here

Living where wildfires can occur puts our homes at risk, but it is possible to live safely
and resiliently with wildfire. The choices we make about our homes and properties –out to 100 metres from the foundation – can greatly reduce vulnerability to wildfire.

To learn more, check out this FireSmart fact sheet: YARD

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 July 6, 2024, unless conditions change.

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832-7235

kelly.burke@gov.ab.ca