High Level Forest Area - August 05, 2025

Wildfire situation

New wildfire in Wood Buffalo National Park

A new wildfire was detected today about 42 km north of Garden River, in Wood Buffalo National Park (HNZ001). This is a mutual aid wildfire. Alberta Wildfire has been in contact with Parks Canada and has initiated airtanker action on the fire. Smoke from the fire is visible from the communities of Fox Lake and Garden River. The wildfire is estimated to be 100 ha in size.

Sousa Creek Wildfire HWF036 

HWF036 is between Rainbow Lake and High Level, on both sides of Highway 58, and is being held. It remains an estimated 52,672 hectares (ha) in size.

The strong progress made on this wildfire continues with firefighting personnel still focused on remaining hot spots, which are primarily on the west side, and bolstering containment lines in these areas. Aerial scanning, when available, assists in identifying additional hot spots. The results of these scans help firefighters focus on priority areas, as we continue our efforts to fully contain and control this wildfire. 

Please note that smoke may still be visible at times, as unburnt pockets of vegetation ignite in the interior of the fire.

Border fires

Alberta Wildfire continues to work closely with its B.C. counterpart to monitor wildfires HBZ001 and HBZ002, which are located on the Alberta-B.C. border. Both wildfires are being held. 

Wildfire statistics

Since January 1, there have been 102 wildfires in the High Level Forest Area, burning approximately 55,000 ha. To view wildfires on a map and for live updates, download the Alberta Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Dashboard. Learn about the wildfire status definitions used in Alberta.

Caution in burnt areas

We urge residents and others in wildfire areas to use extra caution near burnt areas. There are many hazards that may not be visible, such as deep-burning ash pits and falling trees. Burnt trees can be a serious hazard. Trees with green needles or leaves may look healthy but can have burnt-out roots and fall unexpectedly. Trees and powerlines can also fall on the road, causing a hazard to those travelling by vehicle. Do not approach powerlines, as they could be energized. 

Keep drones away

Flying recreational drones near an active wildfire is illegal and dangerous. The airspace over and around a wildfire is closed to all aircraft, including drones, except for those directly involved in firefighting. There can be large fines for breaking the rules.