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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) - Strong winds expected for tomorrow
Alberta Wildfire, the BC Wildfire Service, and the County of Grande Prairie continue operating under unified command to coordinate efforts in managing and containing the Kiskatinaw River wildfire (GBZ001/G70422). The unified command is also working closely with the Peace River Regional District to ensure a coordinated regional response.
This morning, the wildfire was estimated at 13,061 hectares. Weather conditions remained stable throughout the day—despite rising temperatures and dry air, no extreme fire behaviour was observed. However, conditions are expected to change significantly on Sunday. Forecasts call for hot, dry, and windy weather, with gusts reaching up to 60 km/h. A cold front is expected to move through the region Sunday evening, which could shift wind direction and lead to unpredictable fire behaviour. These conditions may result in rapid fire spread, sudden changes in fire direction, and increased fire intensity.
Crews were able to make progress on the Alberta side of the border. More stable weather allowed for safer and more effective ground operations. Alberta Wildfire has also deployed two night-vision helicopters to support overnight firefighting efforts. These specialized aircraft enhance the ability to detect and suppress hot spots, helping crews continue their work around the clock. This progress is a testament to the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved in the unified command.
The County of Grande Prairie asks that County residents who have not registered their livestock with the County’s Livestock Emergency Response Plan (LERP) to call the Grande Prairie Regional Emergency Partnership call centre at (780) 830-5002 from 9 am to 9 pm.
A County of Grande Prairie firefighter works to extinguish a hot spot. Alberta Wildfire is working alongside multiple agencies under a unified command structure to manage the wildfire response.
The County of Grande Prairie's evacuation order and alert remain
The County of Grande Prairie has an evacuation order and an evacuation alert 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 7, 2025 10:44 pm