Notifications

Government mail service may be affected by the Canada Post labour disruption. Learn about how critical government mail will be handled.

Wildfire update

Fort McMurray Forest Area - July 25, 2025

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is very high in the Fort Smith area, high in the Fort Chipewyan area, and low in the remainder of the Fort McMurray Forest Area. 

Rain and cool temperatures have provided relief in some portions of the forest area, but the wildfire risk has increased in other areas.  Wildfires can start and spread easily in dry and windy conditions. Firefighters urge everyone to be cautious when spending time outdoors. Avoid activities that could spark a fire, and always ensure that campfires are fully extinguished.

Wildfire situation

There are currently 5 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, all classified as under control. All under control fires are being monitored for smoke and hotspots as part of suppression efforts. There is no risk to communities at this time from these fires.

Since January 1, 2025, there have been 48 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,201 hectares (ha). 

To view all active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest area, visit the wildfire status dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app

Smoke

Wildfires burning across Canada are creating smoky conditions across the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Always use caution when conditions are smoky and limit your time outside if possible.

  • Visit FireSmoke Canada to see where the smoke is coming from.
  • Smoky conditions can affect your health. Go to wildfire smoke and your health for more information.
  • Call Health Link at 811 if you are having respiratory problems due to smoke.

Fire advisory

A fire advisory is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area.

Under this advisory: 

  • Existing fire permits are valid.
  • New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.
  • Any burning without a valid fire permit, other than a campfire is prohibited.
  • Safe campfires are permitted in designated campgrounds, public, and private lands.

Visit Alberta Fire Bans for details and to view a map of the fire advisory area.

Wildfire pledge

Join Mayor Sandy Bowman and Director of Emergency Management Cindy Miller in signing the wildfire pledge today!

Take the pledge, reduce wildfires and be entered to win an educational helicopter flight!

Sign the pledge:

  • I will always use fire responsibly and safely in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
  • I will fully extinguish my campfire by soaking it, stirring it and soaking it again.
  • I will stop and check my off-highway vehicle regularly for built-up debris while riding off-road.
  • I will report any smoke I see in the forested areas to 310-FIRE.
  • I will be an ambassador for fire safety when enjoying Alberta’s forested areas with friends and family.

Everyone plays a role in reducing the risk of wildfires. 

Please sign the pledge here by filling in the form at the bottom. One entry per person.

Off-highway vehicle safety

An off-highway vehicle (OHV) can cause a wildfire. You can reduce the risk by following these simple steps:

  • Before you ride, clean out hot spots and remove debris from your machine.
  • After riding through muskeg or tall grass, stop and remove any build-up from your machine.
  • Carry firefighting equipment such as a small shovel, collapsible pail or fire extinguisher.
  • Wash your OHV and keep it clean. Do not wash in streams and creeks.
  • Make sure your muffler and spark arrestor are working properly.
  • Stop frequently. Take the time to knock debris from your machine’s hot spots. If the debris is smouldering, soak it, stir it, and soak it again to make sure it is extinguished.

For more information, see Off-highway vehicle safety.

Contact info

Stephen Fudge
587-919-5528
[email protected]

Published on July 25, 2025 3:08 pm