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Wildfire update

Lac La Biche Forest Area - August 06, 2025

Extreme wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is extreme in the Lac La Biche Forest Area. Wildfires can ignite easily, spread quickly and be challenging to control. Avoid all outdoor activities that have the potential to spark a fire. 

Wildfire situation

LWF183

This wildfire is 97 hectares (ha) in size and remains classified as out of control. It is located 24 km west of Highway 881. At this time, the wildfire is not threatening the highway or any nearby communities. Firefighters are working on containment lines to limit potential spread when temperatures rise and fire activity increases.

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. Fire behaviour remains low on LWF132. Firefighters continue to work on containment of this wildfire. 

LWF185

This wildfire is estimated to be 82 ha in size and is classified as out of control. It is approximately 22 km east of Heart Lake First Nation, 13 km northeast of Touchwood Lake and within the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. This wildfire was caused by a recent lightning storm and spread quickly due to dry conditions. Firefighters with assistance from helicopters continue suppression efforts throughout the day.

Pelican Wildfire Complex

The Pelican Wildfire Complex includes LWF131, LWF139 and LWF150. 

  • LWF150 is estimated at 663 ha and remains out of control. It is located approximately 45 km northwest of Wandering River. This wildfire is not currently threatening any communities. Firefighters continue working to contain the wildfire and limit further spread.
  • LWF139 is estimated at 225 ha and is being held.
  • LWF131 is estimated at 29 ha under control.

LWF090

This wildfire remains classified as being held. Some areas within the perimeter of this wildfire remain active, and smoke may be visible. However, the fire remains held, and further growth is not anticipated at this time. 

Wildfire statistics

There are currently 21 active wildfires burning in the Lac la Biche Forest Area, with 6 classified as out of control, 2 classified as being held and 13 classified as under control.

Since January 1, 2025, there have been 195 wildfires with a total of 74, 864.88 hectares burnt  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

Fire restriction

A fire restriction remains in effect for parts of the Lac La Biche Forest Area.

Prohibited:

  • Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
  • Any burning on private land, other than a campfire
  • Fireworks and exploding targets

Allowed:

  • Safe wood campfires on private land, in a designated fire ring, including provincial campgrounds  
  • Backyard firepits
  • Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
  • Barbecue charcoal briquettes
  • Indoor wood fires
  • Open flame oil devices 

For details and to view the restriction area on a map, visit Alberta Fire Bans.

Lightning

With the risk of lightning in the forecast, fire lookout observers are watching for smoke. Firefighters are ready to respond to any new wildfires that may start. Call 310-FIRE (3473) to report smoke or flames in a forested area. 

Wildfire smoke 

Smoky conditions are expected to continue in the area due to ongoing wildfire activity. To identify the source of the smoke and see how much smoke is expected in the forecast, visit FireSmoke Canada. For health-related information, visit Alberta Health Services

Contact info

Randi-Marie Adams
780-404-9186
[email protected]

Published on August 6, 2025 5:38 pm