Grande Prairie Forest Area - June 18, 2025 - 4:30 pm

Wildfire situation

GWF028 - The Hamelin Creek wildfire near Moonshine Lake Provincial Park

This wildfire remains classified as out of control and is estimated at 5,557 hectares in size. Recent rainfall has improved conditions on the ground, helping firefighting crews and heavy equipment make steady progress. Firefighters continue working across the entire fire, with efforts currently focused on the east side. Favourable flying conditions today also allowed helicopters to provide effective bucket support, further aiding suppression efforts.

Saddle Hills County evacuation order and alert 

While this wildfire does not currently threaten any homes or structures, an evacuation order and alert remain in place. Moonshine Lake Provincial Park remains closed.

See Alberta Emergency Alert for evacuation zone information and further details.  

For more information, visit the Saddle Hills County webpage or Facebook page.  

GBZ001 - The Kiskatinaw River wildfire 

This wildfire is estimated at 26,623 hectares and remains classified as out of control. It is burning near the Alberta–British Columbia border, approximately 68 km west of Grande Prairie, in the Kelly Lake area. Continued progress is being made, thanks to cooler weather and rain in the forecast. Despite these favourable conditions, the wildfire continues to pose a potential risk to nearby areas.  

Firefighters are working on the Alberta side of the wildfire today, moving from the south side to the north, with a focus on the Kelly Lake area. Fireguard construction continues on both the north and south sides, and this work should be finished within the next two days. Specialists are clearing dangerous trees to keep access routes safe, while others are using infrared technology to locate and cool down hot spots. A team member is assessing areas where firefighting is no longer active to begin restoration work. Air patrols are ongoing, though helicopter support is limited due to the weather and visibility. 

The BC Wildfire Service is the primary agency in command of working to contain this wildfire. Alberta Wildfire is supporting these efforts as needed. The incident management team is also working closely with the County of Grande Prairie and the Peace River Regional District to ensure a coordinated regional response.

For more information on this wildfire and others in B.C., visit the BC Wildfire Service website.

County of Grande Prairie evacuation alert 

The County of Grande Prairie's evacuation alert remains in effect.

• Alberta residents - for more details, visit the Alberta Emergency Alert website or download the app. For the most up to date information, go to the County of Grande Prairie website or their Facebook page.
• British Columbia residents - visit the Peace River Regional District website or their Facebook page.

GWF040 - Wildfire south of Grande Prairie

Alberta Wildfire continues to respond to this wildfire, located approximately 78 km south of Grande Prairie and 19 km east of Highway 40. The wildfire is estimated at 247 hectares in size and remains classified as out of control. 

Steep terrain has made some areas difficult to access, but firefighting crews, heavy equipment, and aircraft remain actively engaged. Recent rainfall over the past few days has helped support firefighting efforts, slowing fire spread and improving firefighting operations. Crews continue to focus on priority areas, building containment lines and targeting hot spots.

Grande Prairie Forest Area statistics

Since January 1, there have been 41 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area, burning a total of 5,821 hectares.

Lightning-caused wildfires

Lightning is typical this time of year and has been detected across the forest area, with more expected throughout the week. This increases the potential for new wildfire starts. Lightning-caused wildfires can smoulder beneath the surface for several days before becoming active and visible when conditions are favourable, particularly during dry and windy weather.

If you see smoke or other signs of wildfire activity, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3743). Early reporting helps firefighters respond more quickly and reduces the risk of wildfire spread.

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.

Contact info

Kassey Zatko
780-538-5327
[email protected]