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Extreme wildfire danger
The fire danger remains extreme. With very little rain recently — and a forecast for more of the same — forest vegetation is extremely dry and poses a very serious fire risk.
Wildfire situation
Sousa Creek Wildfire (HWF036)
This wildfire, which is between the towns of Rainbow Lake and High Level, near the Chateh turnoff, and along both sides of Highway 58, is currently out of control at 49,515 hectares (ha). The cause of this wildfire is under investigation.
Firefighting efforts remain focused on maintaining the well-established containment lines on the north-northeast side, which protect the community of Chateh, and suppressing hot spots in various locations — including some growth on the west and south sides of the wildfire.
With winds from the southeast, the growth noted on the south side — from the southeast moving west — accounted for most of the additional 3,000-plus ha burned over the weekend. Firefighters, bucketing helicopters and heavy equipment are continuing their efforts to contain and suppress the wildfire in these areas. Airtankers conducted retardant drops on Sunday and remain available, as required. Night-vision-equipped helicopters continue to support overnight operations, as required, and assisted in various locations last night.
Despite the additional growth on the southern perimeter, as noted above, the fire remains approximately the same distance from communities (Chateh, Meander, Rainbow Lake and High Level), which are to the north, northeast, west and east respectively.
Staged re-entry ongoing for residents of Chateh
Most residents have now returned to Chateh after the staged re-entry began last week. Some structure protection (sprinklers) remains in place for now, as a precaution. More information is available on the Dene Tha Facebook page, Dene Tha Radio (89.9 FM), and on posters in the Bushe and Meander communities.
Posted speed and highway closures
Please respect the 50 km/h signs for everyone’s safety. Expect delays or intermittent closures on Highway 58. Visit Alberta 511 for updates.
Wildfire statistics
Since January 1, there have been 62 wildfires in the High Level Forest Area, burning about 51,000 ha. To view wildfires on a map and for live updates, download the Alberta Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Dashboard. Learn more about wildfire status definitions used in Alberta.
Fire ban
A fire ban remains in effect for the High Level Forest Area. Under this ban, all outdoor wood fires are prohibited, and existing fire permits are suspended.
Prohibited:
- All outdoor wood fires, including wood campfires on public and private land, designated firepits and backyard firepits
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
The fire ban will remain in effect until conditions improve. Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the boundaries. See the fire ban fact sheet for more information.
Community Engagement
The High Level Forest Area participated in National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations on Saturday, June 21, at the Dene Tha Assembly Grounds, and at Centennial Park in the Town of High Level. “Bertie Beaver” made appearances at both events and members of the Alberta Wildfire team were able to talk with hundreds of people about National Indigenous Peoples Day, wildfire prevention and firefighter recruitment.
We will be participating in several other community outreach events over the next few weeks, including:
- A community meeting in Chateh – Wednesday, June 25 at 1 p.m. at the local arena. Alberta Wildfire will provide an update on the Sousa Creek Wildfire (HWF036), which will also provide an opportunity for residents and others to ask questions, and for sharing of public safety-related information.
- NLFES 'Float-n-Fun" camp - June 28-29 at Machesis Lake; sponsored by the Northern Lights Forest Education Society (NLFES) with a focus on forest health and foraging. Alberta Wildfire is set to present between 1 - 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 29.
- Canada Day celebrations in the Town of High Level – Tuesday, July 1
- High Level Rodeo – Saturday and Sunday, July 12-13
Note: “Bertie Beaver” is also expected to make appearances on Canada Day and at the rodeo.
“Bertie Beaver” interacts with children at the National Indigenous Peoples Day event at the Dene Tha Assembly Grounds on June 21. Bertie, who is a keen advocate of wildfire prevention and fire safety, also made an appearance later that day at the Town of High Level event at Centennial Park.
Contact info
Mark Giles
780-285-4490
[email protected]
Published on June 23, 2025 2:39 pm