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Moderate wildfire danger
The fire danger is anticipated to climb during the weekend due to warm windy conditions. Dry grass and vegetation could catch easily and burn quickly. Keep watch of your surroundings and keep sufficient water and firefighting equipment nearby when working or recreating outdoors.
We encourage any landowners who have done burning over the winter and that have had past fire permits to revisit the burn location to ensure these fires are fully extinguished.
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 nine wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 6.36 hectares (ha).
Alberta Wildfire is assisting CN Rail with firefighters and air support. The incident is 25 km northwest of Hinton and 4 km northwest of Gregg Lake subdivision. Smoke is visible from highway 40 north but has not burnt into the vegetation beyond the bridge. This fire does not threaten any communities at this time.
EWF009 is located 1.5 km north of Cynthia, along highway 753. The wildfire is estimated to be 5.1 ha in size and classified as under control. Firefighters are working at the site to fully extinguish the wildfire.
Learn more about wildfire status and view active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
Alberta Wildfire and CN Rail are responding to an incident. Smoke is visible from highway 40 north (April 19, 2025 at 10:30 a.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.
You can watch our video on how to prevent spring wildfires.
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.
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.
- Existing fire permits remain valid.
- New permits will not be issued for non-essential heavy fuel burning.
- New permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
- Campfires are allowed in both designated campgrounds and random camping areas.
Contact info
Caroline Charbonneau
780-740-1341
[email protected]
Published on April 19, 2025 11:40 am