Wildfires of note

May 11, 2024

Written by Alberta Wildfire | May 11, 2024 4:32:21 PM

There are two wildfires of note in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta.

MWF-017 is currently classified as out of control at 1,492 hectares. It is located approximately 16 km southwest of Fort McMurray, on the south side of the Athabasca River valley. Fire behaviour is expected to pick up this morning with increased winds until the afternoon. 

Five crews of wildland firefighters, nine helicopters and airtankers worked on this fire today.   

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo has issued an evacuation alert for the residents of Saprae Creek and Fort McMurray. See Alberta Emergency Alert for the latest information. 

See 511 Alberta for the latest information on road closures.

GCU-007 Alberta wildfire is assisting the County of Grande Prairie with an out of control wildfire 4 km east of the town of Teepee Creek. It is estimated to be 1,400 ha and is classified as out of control. Fire behaviour is expected to be active but spread rates will be significantly lessen due to the lack of winds. 

Today crews and heavy equipment will be on the ground to limit spread of the north and south flank. Alberta forestry resources are integrating with municipal fire resources today and requesting additional crews.  

This information is updated as required.

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. 

Calgary Forest Area 

Edson Forest Area 

Fort McMurray Forest Area 

Grande Prairie Forest Area 

High Level Forest Area 

Lac La Biche Forest Area 

Peace River Forest Area 

Rocky Mountain House Forest Area 

Slave Lake Forest Area 

Whitecourt Forest Area