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Wildfire update

Fort McMurray Forest Area - September 08, 2025

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is very high in Fort Smith and Fort McMurray, and high in Fort Chipewyan. Hot and dry conditions are expected to continue over the coming days. Firefighters urge everyone to be extremely cautious when outdoors and to take all necessary precautions to prevent new wildfires.

Wildfire situation

Smoke

Wildfires burning across Canada are creating smoky conditions in 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.

Wildfire statistics

There are currently 4 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. All fires are classified as under control and do not pose a threat to communities. 

Since January 1, 2025, there have been 60 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,404 hectares (ha).

To view active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area on a map, visit the wildfire status dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.

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.

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 hot spots on off-highway vehicles. For more information, see Off-highway vehicle safety.
  • Request a fire permit online for any burning in the Forest Protection Area from March 1 to October 31, with the exception of a campfire.
  • Obtain written consent from a fire officer before using fireworks and exploding targets in the Forest Protection Area.

Contact info

Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]

Published on September 8, 2025 2:27 pm