Grande Prairie Forest Area - June 25, 2025

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. Recent rainfall and cooler temperatures have improved conditions on the ground, allowing firefighters, heavy equipment and helicopters to make steady progress in strengthening containment lines, and identifying and suppressing hot spots. The cause of this wildfire was determined to be lightning. 

Those driving on Range Road 95 should use caution when traveling through the fire zone. Where possible, Saddle Hills County recommends using alternative routes.

Moonshine Lake Provincial Park remains closed at this time.

Saddle Hills County evacuation alert 

The evacuation order has been lifted; however, an evacuation alert remains for areas near the wildfire. Residents should remain prepared to leave on short notice if conditions change. 

You can also visit the Saddle Hills County webpage or Facebook page for more information.

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 and remains classified as out of control. 

Steep terrain has made some areas difficult to access, but firefighters, heavy equipment and helicopters remain actively engaged in suppression efforts. Wildlife encounters have also posed challenges for firefighters working in this remote region, requiring extra caution and awareness on the ground.

Recent rainfall over the past week has supported firefighting efforts by slowing the fire’s spread and improving overall working conditions. Firefighters continue to focus on strengthening containment lines, extinguishing hot spots and steadily reducing fire activity. 

GBZ001 - Kiskatinaw River wildfire 

This wildfire, which originated in British Columbia, remains classified as being held. The wildfire is estimated at 26,315 hectares and is located near the Alberta–British Columbia border, approximately 68 km west of Grande Prairie.

Firefighters continue working toward full containment, focusing on preventing further spread as fire danger levels begin to rise again. Helicopters, heavy equipment and firefighters remain actively engaged in firefighting operations, while nighttime infrared scanning drones are being used to detect and target hard-to-find hot spots.

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.

Calling 911 versus 310-FIRE(3473)

Lately, there have been several 911 calls from the public reporting smoke from the Kiskatinaw River wildfire, with many believing they were seeing a new wildfire. While calling 911 to report a wildfire is always acceptable, Alberta Wildfire recommends calling 310-FIRE(3473) when you see smoke in the area of the Kiskatinaw River wildfire. This number connects you directly to wildfire-trained dispatchers who can help pinpoint the wildfire’s exact location to quickly determine if it's a new wildfire and to send the appropriate firefighting resources.

Wildfire GBZ001 burning within the established fire perimeter. Pockets of unburnt trees can flare up and produce thick smoke. Photo: June 24. 

Grande Prairie Forest Area statistics

Since January 1, there have been 48 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area, burning a total of 5,822 hectares.

Learn more about active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.

 

Lightning-caused wildfires

Lightning is typical this time of year and has been detected across our forest area, with the possibility of more 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.

Fire ban and restriction update

All fire restrictions within the Grande Prairie Forest Area have been lifted. However, as we remain in wildfire season, it's important to continue safe burning practices.

Fire restrictions can vary depending on your location. Forest areas, municipalities, and provincial parks may each have their own fire advisory, restriction, or ban. For example, the Saddle Hills County currently has a fire restriction in place while the Grande Prairie Forest Area does not.

Conditions can vary between regions. Forested areas may retain more moisture than open grassy fields, leading to different fire danger levels and the need for area-specific restrictions.

To stay informed, visit Alberta Fire Bans. You can also download the Alberta Fire Bans app, which uses your location to show the most up-to-date information near you.

Contact info

Kassey Zatko
780-538-5327
[email protected]