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High wildfire danger
Due to warmer and windy conditions, the fire danger level in the High Level Forest Area (HLFA) remains high.
This high wildfire danger level applies primarily to the southern half of the HLFA, essentially south of Zama Road. This includes the areas around Rainbow Lake, Chateh, the Town of High Level, and the communities of Tall Cree First Nation and the Little Red River Cree Nation. The danger level for the northern half of the HLFA is currently assessed as moderate.
As snow melts, and forest and other areas dry out, the risk of a wildfire igniting in dry grass and vegetation like twigs, small branches and brush, increases. Keep a close watch of your surroundings when working and recreating outdoors – and consider applying FireSmart techniques around your home and property.
If you see smoke or flame in the forest and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, there have been 23 wildfires in the HLFA, burning more than 54 hectares (ha).
HWF020
This wildfire, which is currently classified as out of control, was detected late Sunday (May 4) approximately 40 km south-west of the Town of High Level. It currently covers an area of approximately 50 ha. Suppression resources including firefighters, helicopters and airtankers (as required) have been deployed. At this time, this wildfire poses no threat to communities.
Smoke rises from HWF020 southwest of the Town of High Level late Sunday, May 4. Air and ground suppression resources have been deployed to contain and control this wildfire.
To view wildfires on a map and for live updates, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. Learn more about wildfire status definitions used in Alberta.
Fire permits required
As we are now in the official wildfire season (Mar. 1 to Oct. 31), fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Fire permits are free and can be requested from the HLFA main office at 780-926-5407 or online. With seasonal staff now in place, we should be able to respond quickly to your request.
Community outreach
*Forest Officer Morgan Sawicki (left) and Area Manager Stephanie Grocholski discuss wildfire prevention and online updates with a community member at the High Level & District Trade Show on Friday, May 2.
Over the past 10 days, the HLFA has participated in trade shows, school presentations and other outreach events in La Crete, Rocky Lane, Rainbow Lake and High Level. We appreciate the opportunity to engage with residents, students and others discussing wildfire prevention, including campfire safety, and forestry and wildfire management.
Working together, we can enhance public safety and protect our communities and the environment.
Contact info
Mark Giles
780-285-4490
[email protected]
Published on May 5, 2025 4:12 pm