The fire danger in the Peace River Forest Area (PRFA) is VERY HIGH.
Due to increased fire activity and air operations, Seal Lake Road is now closed from Range Road 190 (North Harmon Valley Road). Please visit Northern Sunrise County for more information.
Fire activity has continued to increase, which stresses the importance of adhering to the Fire Restriction that is in effect.
Warm weather and winds can quickly dry the fine fuels raising the danger levels. Report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE(3473).
Wildfire Situation
Since January 1, there have been 50 wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area (PRFA) burning a total of 6,837.821 hectares (ha).
Weather Conditions
Cooler weather conditions on the fire area today after 1.6 millimeters of rain overnight with possible showers throughout the day. Light to moderate northerly winds shifting to west, north westerly later in the afternoon, max temperatures of 16 degrees and 75 per cent relative humidity.
The Kimiwan Complex Fire SWF068 is classified as Out of Control (OC). The current fire size is 125,298 ha.
Yesterday, the American Hot Shots joined the Canadian and Australian firefighters to work on reinforcing and consolidating containment lines, construct guard lines and put out hotspots.
The on-ground work of the firefighters has been supported with aerial suppression and today if weather conditions permit, two S64 Aircranes (Heavies) will increase the efforts with the aim of putting out hotspots before the weather warms and fine fuels begin to once again dry out as forecast later in the week.
We ask community members to refrain from driving on the Seal Lake Road west of the intersection of Range Road 190.
PWF038 is now classified as Under Control (UC) and 100 per cent contained.
An Australian Incident Management Team is managing the Peace River Forest Area (PRFA) Kimiwan Complex which includes both (SWF068 and PWF038) fires. The Incident Management Team is supported by firefighters from Canada, Australia and America.
The Kimiwan Complex Information Officer is Carmel Henderson 780-652-2410.
For more information about wildfire in or near municipalities impacted by SWF068, please go to Northern Sunrise County or the MD of Smoky River
GWF018 is currently classified as Out of Control (OC). It is now estimated to be 48,200 ha in size.
We ask residents to be extra cautious near burnt areas and to avoid venturing into forested areas that have been recently affected by wildfire as they can present other hazards such as falling trees, as a result of root systems being compromised by fire. Deep ash pits and burning peat are also dangerous.
Continue to stay informed by subscribing to Alberta Wildfire updates by entering your email. To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Wildfire Status page.
Caution is advised when travelling on area highways due to smoke conditions, especially in low lying areas. For road closures, visit 511 Alberta.
All wildfires in Alberta are investigated and these wildfires remain under investigation. To learn more about wildfire classifications, click here.
Stay away from active wildfire areas | For your safety and to ensure firefighters can do their job safely, please stay away from active wildfire areas. Your cooperation is essential.
Danger trees | Be extra cautious near burnt areas and avoid forested areas that have been recently affected by wildfire. Hazards remain from falling trees or branches, especially if windy, deep ash pits and burning peat.
Reporting wildfires | Please do not report smoke or flame from within an active wildfire area. Firefighters are diverted from essential tasks to respond to fires reported by the public. You may see smoke or flame within the existing boundary of a wildfire, this is normal.
Smoke | Lingering smoke may still be visible in some areas and in affected communities. Smoke inversions can trap air near the ground causing dangerous driving conditions and poor air quality. Please use extra caution when driving in smoky conditions, and take necessary precautions if you have smoke-related health concerns.
Drones | The use of recreational drones over wildfires in Alberta is dangerous, illegal and could result in a fine of up to $15,000* for putting aircraft and people at risk. Please give Alberta firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely.
To see the forecasted fire danger click here, updates daily at 3:00 PM
Prohibited:
- All outdoor wood fires in backcountry and random camping areas on public land
- Charcoal briquettes in backcountry and random camping areas on public land
- The use of fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Wood campfires on private land and in designated campgrounds
- Charcoal briquettes on private land and in designated campgrounds
- Propane/natural gas-powered appliances
- Open flame oil devices (e.g., turkey deep fryers, tiki torches)
- Indoor wood fires contained within a device with a chimney and spark arrestor
- All appliances must be CSA approved and used per manufacturer’s standards
Be advised that Alberta Parks has it's own set of fire ban levels, please visit their website for more information.
A number of area municipalities have implemented emergency measures in response to wildfires.
For more information about Alberta Emergency Alerts, go to Alberta Emergency Alerts
FireSmart Begins at Home
Using FireSmart principles is becoming a way of life for many communities in North America. With so many neighborhoods threatened by wildfire each year, residents are taking action and reducing the risk to their homes, cabins and properties.
We strongly encourage those with homes, cabins and other structures to FireSmart their properties to limit the impacts of a potential wildfire reaching your door step. To learn more on how you can protect your home and structures from wildfire, visit firesmartcanada.ca or click here to watch videos. FireSmart Canada also has a FREE one-hour course for those who are getting started with FireSmart. Click here to learn more.
For those that have farm or acreages, this publication may be helpful to keep you FireSmart. Click on the link for the Farm and Acreage FireSmart Magazine.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
- Bookmark the Peace River Wildfire Update and check for updates anytime or subscribe to have it emailed to you.
- You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit www.wildfire.alberta.ca
CONTACT
Peace River Wildfire Information Officer
Michelle Huley
Phone: (780) 618-2081
HELPFUL LINKS
Alberta Wildfire StatusAlberta Fire Bans
Air Quality Health Index
Alberta Emergency Alerts
511 Road Reports
Emergency Preparation