High Level Forest Area - July 15, 2025

Fire permits needed 

With the fire ban lifted, safe burning is now allowed. Please remember, however, that permits are required for any type of burning in the Forest Protection Area — except campfires. Request your permit online or by calling the office at 780-926-5407. 

Wildfire situation

HWF036 now being held 

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

Firefighters, heavy equipment operators and aircraft personnel have been working hard over many weeks and have made excellent progress in containing and controlling this wildfire. Additional efforts have been required on the west and southwest sides of the wildfire, where there are persistent hot spots, requiring that firefighters — with the assistance of heavy equipment — dig deep and soak these areas with water. 

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

Caution advised

We urge residents and others in the area 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 — while trees with green needles or leaves, which may look healthy, may have burnt-out roots underground 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. 

Aerial scanning has been requested to identify addtional hot spots, which will help firefighters focus on priority areas, as we continue our efforts to fully contain and control this wildfire. 

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 south of Meander

HWF065, which is south of the community of Meander River and west of Highway 35, is under control at an estimated 650 ha. Its cause has been determined to be lightning. 

Wildfire statistics

Since January 1, there have been 84 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.

Not worth the risk 

Regulations and laws relating to fire in the Forest Protection Area are in place to prevent wildfires. When we abide by them, we protect homes, lives, livelihoods and landscapes. 

Not following the rules could lead to serious fines and penalties, including:

• Burning without a permit: $350
• Failure to properly extinguish permitted burn: $840
• Leaving a campfire unattended: $600
• Starting a fire during a fire ban: $600
• Setting off explosives/fireworks in the forest protection area: $600
• Operating an off-highway vehicle during a ban or forest closure: $1200
• Interfering with wildfire operations: mandatory court appearance

Unsure what activities are permitted in specific locations? Give us a call on our fire information line at 1-866-FYI-FIRE (394-3473). To report illegal fire activity call 310-FIRE (3473). 

Contact info

Mark Giles
780-285-4490
[email protected]