FORT McMURRAY — The wildfire danger in our region is very high. A fire advisory is now in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area as hot, dry conditions and strong winds increase the risk of new fires across northeastern Alberta.
The advisory also covers the High Level and Peace River forest areas and will remain in place until conditions improve.
Alberta Wildfire has raised the fire danger to extreme around Fort McMurray and Fort Chipewyan, while conditions remain very high around Fort Fitzgerald. Officials warn wildfires can ignite easily and spread quickly, urging residents and visitors to avoid activities that could spark a fire.
Under the advisory, fire permits may be restricted or suspended, although campfires remain permitted on public and private land where allowed. Propane and natural gas appliances may still be used, while fireworks remain prohibited without written permission from a forest officer.
Despite the elevated danger, the wildfire situation in the Fort McMurray Forest Area remains stable. Three wildfires are currently active, all are under control and none pose a threat to nearby communities.
Meanwhile, in Wood Buffalo National Park, which is managed by Parks Canada’s wildfire crews, fire danger is also rated very high following a series of lightning storms.
Parks Canada has confirmed five new lightning-caused wildfires, bringing several large fires under active management. The largest of the new fires is estimated at about 3,000 hectares near Caribou Tower, where structural protection has been put in place. Another fire has grown to nearly 2,000 hectares, while several others range from about 100 to more than 1,500 hectares.
Officials say none of the fires currently threaten communities or infrastructure, although Alberta air tankers are assisting Parks Canada on some of the larger blazes.
Parks Canada says widespread lightning, combined with temperatures in the high 20s and low 30s, has contributed to increased fire activity across the park.
Hot and dry weather is expected to continue through the weekend and into Wednesday, keeping wildfire danger elevated across the region.
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