Whitecourt Area Update

WWF044 is classified as EXTINGUISHED and estimated to be one ha in size. This wildfire was located east of Fox Creek and was caused by lightning. 

WWF043 is classified as EXTINGUISHED and estimated to be 8.5 ha in size. This wildfire was located approximately 14 kilometers northwest of the Virginia Hills Road and Hope Creek Road intersection and the cause of this wildfire remains under investigation. 

For the most up-to-date wildfire information, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. 

There are currently no fire bans, restrictions or advisories for the Whitecourt Forest Area. For more information, please visit Alberta Fire Bans.

PROVINCIAL WILDFIRE UPDATE (as of 10:00 am August 14, 2024)

Since January 1, there have been 1,085 wildfires recorded in the Forest Protection Area that have burned 634,725 hectares. There are currently 127 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 14 are classified as out of control, 52 are being held and 61 are under control.

For the most up-to-date wildfire information, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.   

SMOKY CONDITIONS

Due to winds carrying smoke from wildfires across the province and other parts of Canada, the region is currently experiencing smoky conditions. You might also encounter falling ash, as it can travel significant distances with the smoke. Fire Smoke (captured below) provides high-resolution, interactive forecasts for hourly, daily average, and daily maximum concentrations of wildfire smoke. If you have health concerns, please visit or contact Alberta 811.

CAMPFIRE SAFETY

Depending on your location, there may be advisories, restrictions or bans in effect. Before heading out, be sure to check Alberta Fire Bans to determine what is or is not permitted in the area. 

If you do have a safe campfire in the appropriate location please ensure you extinguish your campfire properly by:

• Letting the fire burn down before you plan on putting it out. Spread the embers within the fire pit, then add water or loose dirt, and stir.
  
• Expose any material still burning. Add more water and stir again until you can no longer see smoke or steam.
  
• Do not bury your fire as the embers may continue to smoulder and can re-emerge as a wildfire.
  
• Repeat until your campfire is cool to the touch.
  
• If your fire is out, you should not be able to feel any heat from the ashes.

For more information regarding campfires visit safe campfires.