Government mail service may be affected by the Canada Post labour disruption. Learn about how critical government mail will be handled.
Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is extreme in Fort Smith and Fort Chipewyan and very high in Fort McMurray. With hot and dry conditions and no significant rain in the forecast, wildfires can easily ignite and spread quickly. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could spark a wildfire.
Wildfire situation
Wildfire statistics
Firefighters and resources are currently assisting with a mutual aid fire located 60 km southeast of Fort Smith. MNZ002 is estimated as 225 hectares(ha) in size and classified as out of control.
There are currently 3 active wildfires burning in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. One wildfire is being held, and the other 2 are classified as under control. All active wildfires do not pose a threat to communities.
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 62 wildfires in the forest area, burning approximately 79,404 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.
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.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area due to hot and dry conditions.
Prohibited:
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning on private land, other than a campfire
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Safe wood campfires on private land, in a designated fire ring, including provincial campgrounds
- Backyard firepits
- Propane fire pits and natural gas barbeques
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes on private land and provincial campgrounds
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the restriction area on a map.
Hunting season
Hunting season is now underway. Remember, under a fire restriction, campfires are not allowed in random backcountry camping areas. If you are in an area permitted to have a campfire (such as on private land), ensure you are doing so safely:
- Build campfires in safe areas, clear of grass, twigs and leaves.
- Keep fires small and never leave them unattended.
- Extinguish your campfire before going to bed or leaving the site. Soak it, stir it and soak it again.
- A fire is out only when no heat remains in the ashes.
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 September 25, 2025 3:09 pm