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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger remains extreme in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. Forest vegetation is extremely dry and can easily ignite, and strong winds can quickly drive fires to spread rapidly and unpredictably. These conditions can result in fast-moving, high-intensity wildfires that are difficult to control.
We strongly urge residents, the public, and industry partners to exercise extreme caution until conditions improve. Wildfires are typically most active between 11 am and 9 pm. To reduce the risk, schedule any activities that could produce heat, sparks, or friction early in the morning or late in the evening. If you’re working outdoors, remain alert to changing conditions and ensure you have adequate firefighting tools and water readily available.
Wildfire situation
GBZ001 (Kiskatinaw River wildfire) - Advances further into Alberta driven by strong winds
Alberta Wildfire, the BC Wildfire Service, and the County of Grande Prairie continue to respond to the Kiskatinaw River wildfire (GBZ001/G70422), located in the area of Kelly Lake, B.C. The fire is estimated to be 14,276 hectares in size. Due to dry and very windy conditions today, the wildfire has expanded further into Alberta.
The northeast corner of the fire remained active throughout the day. Sustained winds of 30–50 km/h and gusts up to 75 km/h are expected through this evening. A cold front is tracking across northeastern B.C., bringing a shift in wind direction, and contributing to very challenging conditions. Spotting fire continues, and fire behaviour is expected to remain aggressive, particularly on the northeast and south sides of the fire. As winds shift, the south flank is anticipated to become the head of the fire, with the potential for significant growth to the southeast.
Highway 43 is currently open but subject to change if conditions worsen. Please visit 511 Alberta for the most up to date Alberta road reports, and DriveBC for British Columbia roads.
The County of Grande Prairie asks that County residents who have not registered their livestock with the County’s Livestock Emergency Response Plan (LERP) should call 780-532-9727.
Alberta Wildfire, the B.C. Wildfire Service, and the County of Grande Prairie are now operating under unified command to coordinate efforts in managing and containing this large wildfire threatening the region. The unified command is also working closely with the Peace River Regional District to ensure a coordinated regional response.
Kiskatinaw River wildfire burning along the Alberta Border. Photo taken on June 6.
The County of Grande Prairie's evacuation order expanded
The County of Grande Prairie expanded its evacuation order this evening. Both an evacuation order and an evacuation alert remain in effect. For your safety, it's critical to follow all evacuation instructions, as wildfire conditions can change rapidly. Stay informed and be prepared to act immediately if needed.
- Alberta residents - visit the Alberta Emergency Alert website or download the app. Detailed updates are also available on the County of Grande Prairie website and Facebook page.
- British Columbia residents - visit the Peace River Regional District website or their Facebook page.
Activation of GPREP to assist evacuees
The Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership (GPREP) remains activated and will be assisting evacuees living within the County of Grande Prairie. GPREP updates can be found on their webpage and Facebook page.
Grande Prairie Forest Area statistics
Since January 1, there have been 39 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area, burning a total of 115 hectares.
Learn more about active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
Fire ban
A fire ban remains in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest 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 place until conditions improve. For details and updates, visit albertafirebans.ca.
Evacuation preparedness
Have an emergency plan in case you and your family need to evacuate. Individuals and families should be prepared to take care of themselves for at least 72 hours. Be sure to also plan for your pets and livestock in case of an evacuation.
- Evacuation alert: Issued when there is a potential threat. This gives residents time to prepare so they are ready to act quickly by packing essentials, collecting important documents, fueling vehicles, making arrangements for pets and livestock, etc.
- Evacuation order: Issued when there is an immediate risk to life or safety. Residents may be directed to leave the area immediately—there may be no time to gather belongings.
Wildfire smoke
Smoke may be visible and settling over our communities. Visit firesmoke.ca to see where the smoke is coming from.
If you have smoke-related health concerns, call 811 or visit the Alberta Health website.
Illegal use of drones near wildfires
Flying a drone near or over a wildfire endangers our pilots and forces us to ground aircraft, causing delays in firefighting operations. You could face a hefty fine for putting aircraft and people at risk. Please give our firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely.
For more information visit Transport Canada.
Contact info
Kassey Zatko
780-538-5327
[email protected]
Published on June 6, 2025 9:22 pm