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The fire danger has escalated due to warm windy conditions and is anticipated to increase as snow melts and dead dry grass and vegetation become exposed. Under the current conditions, dry vegetation could catch easily and burn quickly. Keep watch of your surroundings when working and recreating outdoors.
If you see smoke or flame in the forest and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025, there have been eight wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 1.26 hectares (ha).
Alberta Wildfire responded to a new wildfire today alongside Brazeau County that is now extinguished. EWF008 is located approximately 13 km east of Cynthia, south of highway 621.
Learn more about wildfire status and view active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
EWF008 is now extinguished 13 km east of Cynthia (April 16, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.).
Windy spring conditions
As we continue to experience warm temperatures the grass and other vegetation dries out becoming highly flammable. The area anticipates windy conditions today and the remainder of the week that could allow for a fast moving wildfire if one does occur. We are urging everyone to use caution when working or recreating outdoors.
- When operating off-highway vehicles (OHVs) you should stop often to remove debris from hot spots on your vehicle.
- Avoid parking on tall grass as the heat from your vehicle’s muffler can ignite dry vegetation.
- Use equipment safely by keeping spark-producing machines away from dry grass.
- When using farming equipment make sure that you clean debris from hot spots regularly. Always carry sufficient water and firefighting tools such as a shovel, pail, and extinguisher.
Hazard reduction burning
Alberta Wildfire will be conducting additional hazard reduction burns while conditions are favorable. Hazard reduction burns reduce accumulated dry vegetation that could ignite under hot windy conditions and threaten homes and other important infrastructure. These burns are conducted under the careful watch of wildfire specialists and only ignited when firefighters and resources are sufficient and weather conditions are favorable.
- Ty Camp/RC Flyers (north east of Hinton) - Anticipated April 17.
To learn more about hazard reduction information.
If you plan to burn it, get your permit
Alberta’s wildfire season starts on March 1. This means that fire permits are now required for burning within the Forest Protection Area, except campfires. Fire permits are free and can be requested online. You may also request your fire permit by calling your local forestry office - Edson Forest Area 780-723-8527.
Prevent spring wildfires
Wildfire can start and spread anytime of year, always put out your campfire and never leave it unattended. To prevent spring wildfires, we urge residents and industry to return to their burn piles and ensure they are fully extinguished.
You can watch our video on how to prevent spring wildfires.
FireSmart your home, farm and acreage
Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow.
Flames aren’t the only threat. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers. By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire.
Visit FireSmart Alberta for information on how to get your journey started.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for the Edson Forest Area due to warm, windy conditions and the dry grass hazard. The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve. To learn more, visit albertafirebans.ca.
Contact info
Caroline Charbonneau
780-740-1341
[email protected]
Published on April 16, 2025 7:53 pm