Government mail service may be affected by the Canada Post labour disruption. Learn about how critical government mail will be handled.
High wildfire danger
Due to drying vegetation and warmer temperatures, the wildfire danger is currently high in Fort McMurray. North of Lake Athabasca the wildfire danger is moderate.
Wildfires can start and spread easily in hot and dry conditions. Be cautious if you're spending time outdoors and take all necessary precautions to prevent new wildfires.
Hazard reduction burning
Alberta Wildfire will continue hazard reduction burning this week as part of an enhanced wildfire risk reduction program. Today, trained crews will be conducting controlled burns along Amoco Road and on the south side of Highway 881, between Gregoire Lake Estates and Gregoire Lake Provincial Park.
These planned burns are carried out by trained crews in a safe, controlled manner to remove dry and dead surface fuels—such as leaves, grass, invasive weeds, and woody debris—that accumulate over the winter. Reducing this fuel helps lower the risk and intensity of wildfires in the region.
During burning operations, residents may notice smoke and visible flames. For your safety:
- Please avoid active burn areas to allow crews to work safely
- Watch for posted signage indicating planned burns
- Keep windows closed if you live nearby to help reduce smoke exposure
While every effort is made to minimize smoke impacts, some smoke may still be present in surrounding communities.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is currently in place for the Fort McMurray Forest Area. The continued warm temperatures and dry vegetation can create conditions where wildfires start easily and spread quickly. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid. Permit holders must follow all safe burning conditions outlined on the permit.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis for essential burning only.
- Safe campfires are allowed.
Prohibited:
- Any burning without a valid fire permit is prohibited, except for campfires.
Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking Alberta Fire Bans.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026, there have been 4 wildfires in the forest area.
To view active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest area on map, visit the wildfire status dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Seeking your input
Forest area updates are an important way we share the latest information with Albertans. We’ve developed a short survey to determine if the updates are meeting your needs. Share your thoughts today
Municipal wildfire reporting
Sharing timely information about active wildfires with Albertans is an important part of the Alberta government's approach to wildfire safety. That’s why we’ve enabled municipalities to report wildfires occurring within their borders to have them included on the Alberta Wildfire dashboard and Alberta Wildfire Status app. The blue flame icon indicates a municipal fire. Read the map legend to understand the different flame icons.
Alberta Wildfire is also introducing response type reporting to explain how a wildfire is being managed. Wildfires within Alberta Wildfire’s jurisdiction will be assigned one of three response types:
Full response: Immediate and aggressive suppression action is taken.
Modified response: Some suppression action is used to contain a wildfire within a pre-determined boundary.
Monitored response: The wildfire is observed and assessed.
Click on one of the flame icons on the wildfire map to find the response type information.
Responsible recreation
If you are heading outdoors, remember to do your part to prevent wildfires. Recreating responsibly on Alberta's public land helps keep our forests safe.
Remember to:
- Adhere to Alberta Fire Bans
- When permitted, only create campfires on hard surfaces and/or in campfire rings
- Keep campfires small, always ensure they are full extinguished and never leave them unattended
- Properly maintain and clear debris from hotspots on off-highway vehicles (OHV's). For more information, see Off-highway vehicle safety
- Any burning in the Forest Protection Area (FPA) requires a fire permit from March 1 to October 31, with the exception of a campfire. Request a fire permit online
- Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited in the Forest Protection Area without written consent from a forest officer.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]
Published on May 12, 2026 9:28 am