Whitecourt Forest Area - April 16, 2025
The wildfire danger across the Whitecourt Forest Area is high which means that forest fuels are dry and fire risk is serious. Conditions may be challenging for fire suppression efforts. We're expecting high winds in the area, please exercise caution.
If you see smoke or flame in the forest and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025 there have been five wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 2.72 hectares (ha). There are currently two active wildfires in the forest area and they're classified as under control. Learn more about wildfire status.
Windy spring conditions
Spring is a critical time for wildfires when the dry and dead vegetation becomes exposed as the snow melts. As we continue to experience warm temperatures the grass and other vegetation dries out becoming highly flammable. Today and into the weekend, we are expecting gusty winds that will create conditions for a fast moving wildfire if one does occur.
We are urging everyone to exercise caution when working or recreating while outdoors:
- When operating off-highway vehicles (OHVs) you should stop often to remove debris from hot spots on your vehicle.
- Avoid parking on tall grass as the heat from your vehicle’s muffler can ignite dry vegetation.
- Use equipment safely by keeping spark-producing machines away from dry grass.
- When using farming equipment make sure that you clean debris from hot spots regularly. Always carry firefighting tools such as a shovel, pail, and extinguisher.
Get your free fire permit
As of March 1, fire permits are required for all burning within the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of campfires. If you require assistance, contact the Whitecourt Forest Area office at 780-778-7153 from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
Please only burn debris under the conditions outlined on your fire permit. It is recommended that if the winds are gusting over 15 km/h or increase beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area due to warm, windy conditions and the dry grass hazard.
For more information about the fire advisory please visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Published on April 16, 2025 3:12 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
From March 1 to October 31, all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, require a fire permit.
Prevent wildfires by checking on winter burn sites. Winter burns can smoulder underground and often reignite in the spring. Extinguish a fire by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
colby.lachance@gov.ab.ca