Lac La Biche Forest Area - August 03, 2025

Wildfire situation

LWF183

LWF183 is now estimated at 97 hectares (ha) in size. It is classified as out of control and is located 24 km west of Highway 881. At this time, the wildfire is not threatening the highway or any nearby communities. Yesterday, extreme fire activity created dangerous conditions that limited the ability to safely begin containment efforts. Once conditions allowed, firefighters were able to access the wildfire and begin containment efforts, with support from helicopters conducting water drops.

LWF172

LWF172 is estimated at 29 ha in size and remains classified as out of control. It is 11 km east of Highway 55 and 12 km southeast of Beaver Lake Cree Nation. Firefighters continue working in the area, using heavy equipment to build containment lines with support from helicopters to help limit further spread. This wildfire is not currently threatening any communities. 

Medley River Wildfire (LWF132)

This wildfire is now estimated at 4,471 ha in size and remains classified as out of control. It is located in the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. Firefighters continue working alongside heavy equipment to build containment lines, with helicopters supporting their efforts by dropping water to help slow the fire's spread. 

LWF090

LWF090 remains classified as being held. Due to hot and dry conditions, some areas within the perimeter of this wildfire are showing increased activity, and smoke may be visible. However, the fire remains held, and further growth is not anticipated at this time. 

Pelican Wildfire Complex

The Pelican Wildfire Complex includes three wildfires: LWF139 and LWF150, which are classified as out of control, and LWF131, which is under control.

None of these wildfires are currently threatening communities. Sprinklers have been installed on buildings in the area as a precaution. 

• LWF150 is estimated at 663 ha. It is located 45 km northwest of Wandering River.
• LWF139 is estimated at 225 ha in size. It is located on the west side of the Athabasca River, 25 km west of Highway 63.

Firefighters continue focused on establishing containment lines and limiting further spread on both of these wildfires. 

Wildfire statistics

There are currently 21 active wildfires burning in the Lac la Biche Forest Area, with 8 classified as out of control, 2 classified as being held and 11 classified as under control. 

Since January 1, 2025, there have been 187 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area.

For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app. 

Lightning-caused wildfires 

Scattered rainfall across the forest area provided slight relief to wildfire conditions today. However, the amount was not significant enough to eliminate the risk of new wildfire starts. With prolonged dry conditions and a high volume of lightning, there remains an increased likelihood of lightning-caused wildfires in the area.  If you see smoke or signs of wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3473). 

Farming and agriculture equipment 

High temperatures and below-average moisture levels have increased the potential for extreme fire behaviour across the forest area.  The risk of wildfires starting from farming and agriculture activities is very high, and extreme caution is advised when working in fields.

To reduce the risk of starting a wildfire:

• Avoid working during the hottest part of the day if possible.
• Keep a fire extinguisher or water source easily available in your equipment.
• Check and clean equipment regularly to prevent the buildup of combustible material.
• Make sure your machinery has spark arrestors and functioning mufflers.

A small spark can lead to a fast-moving wildfire. Take the time to inspect your equipment and if possible, adjust work plans based on weather conditions. 

Contact info

Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]