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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.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for the High Level Forest Area.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits will remain valid, but extension requests may not be granted.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
The burning of heavy fuels, including machine piled brush piles and windrows is restricted. The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
To learn more, visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, there have been 22 wildfires in the HLFA, burning more than 59 hectares (ha).
HWF020
Firefighters, along with helicopters and airtankers, are responding to an out-of-control wildfire that is estimated to be 50 ha is size. This wildfire was detected May 4 and is located approximately 40 km southwest of the Town of High Level. At this time, this wildfire poses no threat to communities.
Wildfire HWF020 is experiencing very little fire activity today (May 6, 2025).
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.
Under the fire advisory, existing fire permits will remain valid, but extension requests may not be granted. New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
Spring conditions
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.
Contact info
Mark Giles
780-285-4490
[email protected]
Published on May 6, 2025 2:58 pm