There is one wildfire of note in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.
MCX002 - Cattail Lake Complex
There are several wildfires that are all being managed together under MCX002. This includes MWF046, MWF047, MWF048, MWF051, MWF054 and MWF055. All of these wildfires are classified as under control or being held, except for MWF047. All of these wildfires were caused by lightning.
MWF047 is the largest wildfire that's included in this complex, is approximately 12,000 ha in size and is classified as out of control.
This wildfire is approximately 8 km northeast of industrial facilities, about 50 km northeast Fort McKay and 70 km northeast of Fort McMurray. Yesterday, there was no significant growth towards any infrastructure.
There are 142 personnel currently working on this complex. We currently have 14 helicopters working on various tasks including bucketing operations.
This wildfire saw significant growth towards the east and experienced extreme fire behaviour. Today will be another challenging day for firefighters.
Crews will be working from the northwest corner towards the south to reinforce containment lines along the western edge of the wildfire.
Additionally, airtankers will be dropping retardant in strategic locations throughout the day as required.
Today, we expect a high of 27 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of 40 per cent. We anticipate winds coming out of the west at 20 km/h, gusting up to 35 km/h. There's a 40 per cent chance of 1-2 mm of rain.
Yesterday, two nighttime capable helicopters dropped water on the fire, with plans to have them return again this evening. Fighting wildfires at night is successful because fire behaviour is lower and good progress can be made.
A wildfire of note is determined to be of significant public interest and may pose a threat to public safety, communities or critical infrastructure.
Wildfires of note do not typically include mutual aid wildfires located outside of the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Alberta Wildfire provides assistance on a mutual aid wildfire but is not the lead agency.
The Forest Protection Area of Alberta is divided into ten forest areas. Find the latest updates for each area or subscribe to receive them in your inbox.
Rocky Mountain House Forest Area