Edson Forest Area - June 27, 2025

Wildfire situation 

Since January 1, there have been 54 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 1,086 hectares (ha).

View active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the wildfire status dashboard. Wildfires are regularly assessed by experts and assigned a status to describe the behaviour of the wildfire, and how it is responding to suppression efforts under current and expected conditions. 

EWF038 Sink Hole Lake Wildfire

EWF038 is located 12 km northeast of Cynthia and 10 km east of Highway 753. It is 7 km north of Highway 621, on the northeast corner of Sink Hole Lake. The wildfire is estimated to be 10 ha and classified as under control. The wildfire was determined to be caused by lightning. Firefighters will monitor this wildfire for activity and respond if required.

EWF036 January Creek Wildfire

EWF036 is part of the Yellowhead Wildfire Complex and located on the south side of Peers, on both sides of Highway 32. The size is estimated to be 738 ha. The wildfire is now classified as under control which means that firefighting efforts were successful and there is no risk that the fire will spread. Firefighters will monitor the wildfire as required and are prepared to respond as needed. The cause remains under investigation. 

EWF030 Mercoal Creek Wildfire

EWF030 is part of the Yellowhead Wildfire Complex and located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire is estimated to be 320 ha in size and classified as under control. The wildfire was determined to be caused by lightning.  Firefighters will continue to monitor the fire and respond if required.

Lightning-caused wildfires

Lightning is typical this time of year and has been detected across our forest area, with the possibility of more throughout the week. This increases the potential for new wildfire starts. Lightning-caused wildfires can smoulder beneath the surface for several days before becoming active and visible when conditions are favourable, particularly during dry and windy weather.

If you see smoke or other signs of wildfire activity, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3743). Early reporting helps firefighters respond more quickly and reduces the risk of wildfire spread.

The area may experience lightning in the coming days and cause a wildfire. If you see smoke or flame and suspect it's a wildfire, contact 310-FIRE (lightning strike seen from Tom Hill Tower).

Choose your campfire site

In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. These are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, use sites that are clear of dry grass and vegetation. Clear the site down to bare mineral soil, keep it sheltered from wind and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes. 

When you're done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Never leave a campfire unattended. For more information, see Safe campfires: Wildfire prevention tips.

Get your free fire 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 the Edson Forest Area office at 780-723-8527.

Contact info

Caroline Charbonneau
780-740-1341
[email protected]