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Very High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is very high in the Lac La Biche Forest Area.
Hot and dry conditions are expected to continue, combined with gusty winds, over the coming days. There is a high risk of wildfires igniting and spreading rapidly. Firefighters urge everyone to be extremely cautious when outdoors and to take all necessary precautions to prevent new wildfires.
Wildfire situation
Meadley River Wildfire (LWF132)
The Meadley River wildfire was discovered on July 9 and is currently burning out of control. The fire is estimated at 3,374 hectares (ha) and is located in the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. It has reached the west side of Primrose Lake.
Heavy equipment operations took place overnight, with assistance from night-vision equipped helicopters.
Due to heavy smoke surrounding the fire, Alberta Wildfire has been unable to update the perimeter of this wildfire.
LWF131
This wildfire is now being held and estimated at 20 ha in size. The fire is located approximately 32 km northwest of Wandering River, near the west side of the Athabasca River. Firefighters are responding to the wildfire with support from helicopters with buckets. No communities are at risk at this time.
Caribou Lake Wildfire Complex
The Caribou Lake Wildfire Complex includes wildfires LWF090 and LWF097. These wildfires are being managed together.
LWF090
This wildfire is now being held and is an estimated 68,028 ha in size. It is 17 km southeast of Conklin and 28 km south of the Janvier airstrip.
There has been little change in wildfire activity as firefighters have been making good progress on maintaining containment lines and preventing any further growth of the fire. Suppression efforts continue, supported by firefighters, heavy equipment and helicopters.
Wildfire statistics
There are currently 10 active wildfires burning in the Lac la Biche Forest Area, with one classified as out of control, 2 classified as being held and 7 classified as under control. Since January 1, 2025, there have been 136 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, burning a total of 72,311 ha.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is now in place for the Lac La Biche Forest Area due to dry conditions and strong winds.
Under the fire advisory:
- Existing permits will remain valid.
- New permit requests will still be approved on a case by case basis.
- Safe campfires for cooking and warming are still allowed. Caution is advised as dry and windy conditions are forecasted.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information.
Lightning
Lightning is common this time of year and has been consistently detected across the forest area, increasing the potential for new wildfires.
Lightning-caused fires can smoulder beneath the surface for several days before becoming active and visible, especially during dry and windy conditions. If you see smoke or other signs of wildfire activity, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE (3743).
Wildfire smoke
Local wildfires are causing smoky conditions throughout the Lac La Biche Forest Area. Call Health Link at 811 if you’re having respiratory problems due to smoke. Visit FireSmoke Canada to see where wildfire smoke is coming from.
Campfire safety
Abandoned campfires cause many wildfires every year in Alberta. These human-caused wildfires are completely preventable. Never leave a campfire unattended and always fully extinguish it when you are done. Soak it, stir it and soak it again, until the coals are cool to the touch.
Fire permits required
During wildfire season, a fire permit is required in the Forest Protection Area for all burning except campfires. Permits help us track where burning projects are happening and outline the conditions for a safe burn. Request your free fire permit online.
Published on July 14, 2025 6:59 pm