Alberta fire danger map for June 24, 2025. Image via alberta.ca
Rain helps central Alberta, but wildfires still rage in the north
FORT McMURRAY, AB – While recent rainfall has brought some relief to central Alberta, much of the province’s north remains dangerously dry, with wildfires continuing to threaten communities. As of 3:30 p.m. on June 24, 51 wildfires are actively burning in Alberta’s Forest Protection Area, 18 of which are classified as out of control.
Over 1,500 firefighters, including international crews from the United States, Australia and Costa Rica, are on the ground, supported by helicopters, air tankers and night vision equipment. Since the start of the year, 594 wildfires have burned through more than 670,000 hectares of land, and fire bans remain in place across the High Level and Fort McMurray Forest Areas due to ongoing high risk.
While the rain has allowed some evacuation orders to be lifted, caution remains high. The Municipal District of Opportunity No. 17 will lift its evacuation order for Red Earth Creek on June 25, while the Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council will lift the order for Loon Lake the same day. Both communities are being warned to remain prepared to evacuate again if conditions deteriorate.
Other evacuation orders remain in place for Peerless Lake, Trout Lake and Chipewyan Lake, with reception centres set up in Edmonton and Wabasca-Desmarais. Saddle Hills County lifted its evacuation order for Blueberry Mountain on June 23, but residents are advised to stay alert. An evacuation alert remains in effect for the Dene Tha’ First Nation community of Chateh.
Wildfire smoke continues to affect air quality in parts of the province, and Alberta Health Services encourages residents to monitor conditions closely. Six schools, including Red Earth Creek School and Clarence Jaycox School in Loon Lake, remain closed due to evacuations, along with one child-care centre. Educational and childcare authorities are working to ensure displaced students and families continue to receive support.
Highway 686 between Red Earth Creek and Trout Lake remains closed due to fire activity. Authorities urge drivers to check 511 Alberta for real-time updates, obey detour signs, and treat road crews with patience and respect. Residents are encouraged to follow Alberta Emergency Alerts and FireSmart Alberta guidance to stay safe and reduce the risk of new wildfires.
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