Wildfire Update - August 19, 2020
The wildfire danger rating for the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is VERY HIGH.
PRESCRIBED BURNING
With continuing warm and dry conditions in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, a fire advisory remains in place.
The conditions mean it is easier for wildfires to start and spread if they are not properly controlled. Firefighters will be taking advantage of these conditions to conduct prescribed fire operations in the Chungo Gap area northwest of Nordegg over the next few days.
Prescribed fire is the planned and controlled use of fire to achieve natural resource management objectives and reduce the potential for unwanted wildfires in and around communities and other values such as commercial timber allotments. Fire on the landscape is a necessary and much needed natural process for ecosystem renewal and to sustain healthy landscapes.
These operations are carried out by trained firefighters only under specific weather and on-the ground conditions. The prescribed fire operations will not reduce Alberta Wildfire’s ability to respond to any new wildfires.
The Chungo Gap will be closed to the public during prescribed fire operations. The area is expected to be open to the public again on August 22, 2020.
At times, smoke and open flame from a prescribed fire may be visible in the surrounding area. You may see firefighting crews, trucks and helicopters. For the safety of both yourself and the firefighters, please keep a safe and respectful distance from the operation at all times.
If you have questions about the prescribed burn please contact the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area office at 403-845-8250.
The Fire Advisory remains in effect for the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area:
- Safe campfires are allowed.
- Existing fire permits remain valid.
- Fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
- Permits for fireworks and exploding targets will not be issued.
Off-highway vehicles can start wildfires - check frequently to ensure hotspots are free of debris, and make sure mufflers and spark arrestors are working properly.
Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again to ensure it is extinguished.
The Fire Advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
Please visit AlbertaFireBans.ca for a map of the affected area.
For more information, please contact:
Phone: 1-866-394-3473
RELATED INFORMATION
Websites:
- Alberta Wildfire
- Alberta Fire Bans
- FireSmart in Alberta
- Alberta Emergency Alerts
- Air Quality Health Index
- Wildfire Smoke and Your Health
- 511 Road Reports
- Emergency Preparation
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