Grande Prairie Forest Area - June 27, 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 will remain closed throughout the weekend and into Canada Day.  

Saddle Hills County evacuation alert 

An Saddle Hills County 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.

On June 26, the Grande Prairie Forest Area welcomed a firefighting crew from New Brunswick to support wildfire suppression operations on GWF040. We are grateful for the skilled and dedicated firefighters who travel from across the country to assist in protecting our forests and communities.

New Brunswick firefighters arrive at the Grande Prairie Forestry warehouse to collect their equipment and receive an area briefing. Photo: June 26.

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.

Over the past two weeks, significant progress has been made on containment lines. However, pockets of unburned trees remain within the perimeter, and these areas could support increased fire activity as temperatures rise and wind speed increase. While perimeter growth is not anticipated, there is potential for spot fires under these conditions. To prepare, additional heavy equipment are on standby to respond quickly if this occurs. Crews are focusing efforts in priority areas to reinforce containment ahead of the weekend.

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.

For public in the area this weekend

If you are planning to visit the area near this wildfire, please be aware that active firefighting operations are ongoing. Give firefighters plenty of space to work and slow down when driving past firefighting crews and equipment along the roadside. You may also notice increased smoke as the fire continues to burn within the established perimeter.

An Area Restriction Order remains in effect on the British Columbia side of the border to protect both public and responder safety. Please respect all signage, road closures and restricted areas.

As always, we encourage everyone in the region to stay informed. Wildfires can be unpredictable and conditions can change quickly—be prepared to adjust your plans as needed.

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.

Grande Prairie Forest Area statistics

Since January 1, there have been 50 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.

Choose your campfire site

In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. These are designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, use sites that are clear of dry grass and vegetation. Clear the site down to bare mineral soil, keep it sheltered from wind and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes. 

When you're done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Never leave a campfire unattended. For more information, see Safe campfires: Wildfire prevention tips.

Contact info

Kassey Zatko
780-538-5327
[email protected]