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Very High wildfire danger
The fire danger in the Edson Forest Area is now very high. A wildfire will ignite very easily in these conditions and can quickly grow out of control. High temperatures and low humidity will cause intense fire behavior. A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for the area that could produce strong winds. A wildfire could move quickly under those conditions.
Avoid all outdoor activities that have the potential to cause a fire from a spark, friction or hot exhaust.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, there have been 37 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 310 hectares (ha). View active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
EWF036 near Peers
Alberta Wildfire and Yellowhead County firefighters, heavy equipment, helicopters and airtankers are currently responding to EWF036 located less then 1 km southeast of Peers on the east and west side of highway 32. The wildfire is estimated to be 70 ha in size and growing, classified as out of control. The wildfire crossed the highway shortly after 4:15 p.m. and is moving very quickly towards the east.
For highway closures, visit Alberta 511 for further information.
Yellowhead County has issued an evacuation order for Peers and surrounding area. Visit the Alberta Emergency Alert or download the app for information or visit their social media page - Yellowhead County Facebook.
EWF036 is estimated to be 70 ha and growing towards the east (May 29, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.).
EWF037 near Bear Lake
Alberta Wildfire firefighters and helicopters are currently responding to EWF037 located 1.5 km north of highway 748 and 5 km east of Bear Lake. The wildfire is estimated to be 1 ha in size and now classified as being held. Heavy helicopters bucketed on this wildfire and it is not a threat to any community at this time.
Mercoal Creek Wildfire (EWF030)
Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment continue to respond to wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire remains classified as being held and estimated to be 224 ha. The fire was caused by lightning.
Tomorrow, a high of 24C and 20% relative humidity is forecasted with the possibility of rain and thunder showers. Winds are expected to come from the southwest 15-20 gusting to 40 km/h.
Firefighters will continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of heavy equipment and helicopters. They're searching for and extinguishing hotspots which often involves digging deep into the ground and dousing the smoldering fire with water. Airtankers are available if required.
Yellowhead County has indicated that there is no evacuation order for the community at this time; however, having a plan and being prepared is always a good idea. More information can be found on the preparedness website. Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630. Get regular updates by visiting the social media page - Yellowhead County Facebook.
Lightning-caused wildfires
Lightning-caused wildfires are a common natural occurrence in Alberta, making up approximately 30% of the wildfires that occur each year.
The Edson Forest Area has firefighters and equipment ready to respond for the anticipated increase in fire danger and thunderstorms in the forecast. Call 310-FIRE if you see smoke or flames and suspect it's a wildfire. Learn more about how to report a wildfire.
Fire ban
A fire ban is in effect for the northern and central regions of the Forest Protection Area. Under this ban, all outdoor wood fires are prohibited and existing fire permits are suspended.
Prohibited:
- All outdoor wood fires, including wood campfires on public and private land, designated firepits and backyard firepits
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
The fire ban will remain in effect until conditions improve. Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the boundaries.
Contact info
Caroline Charbonneau
780-740-1341
[email protected]
Terry Abual-Soud
780-728-2397
[email protected]
Published on May 29, 2025 5:57 pm