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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is extreme in the Lac La Biche Forest Area due to a lack of significant rain for several days, creating very dry conditions. Wildfire can ignite very easily in these conditions and quickly spread to trees.
We are expecting hot, dry, and windy conditions to continue, which will increase the wildfire risk. Avoid all outdoor activities that have the potential to spark a fire.
Wildfire situation
Medley River Wildfire (LWF132)
The Medley River wildfire was discovered on July 9 and is currently burning out of control. The fire is estimated at 4,510 ha and is located in the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range.
Suppression efforts continued today with support by firefighters, airtankers and helicopters bucketing water. The northside continues to be the most active and therefore challenging side today.
LWF131
This wildfire is currently burning out of control and estimated at 29 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 bucketing water.
LWF139
This wildfire was discovered on July 15 and is classified as burning out of control. The fire is estimated at 75 ha and is located on the west side of the Athabasca River, 25 km west of Highway 63. Firefighters continue suppression efforts with support from helicopters to contain the fire's growth.
At this time, these wildfires do not pose a threat to surrounding communities.
Caribou Lake Wildfire Complex
The Caribou Lake Wildfire Complex includes wildfires LWF090, LWF097, LWF138 and LWF147. These wildfires are being managed together.
LWF147
This wildfire was discovered on July 18 and is currently burning out of control. The fire is located 21 km west of Highway 881 and is approximately 199 ha in size. Alberta Wildfire is responding to this wildfire with airtankers and helicopters. Smoky conditions today are making suppression efforts challenging today.
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.
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.
LWF149
LWF149 is now classified as being held thanks to the quick response and efforts of Alberta Wildfire. The fire is located 8.2 km northeast of Janvier, and 10 km east of highway 881. This wildfire is estimated at 2 ha in size. Alberta Wildfire is continuing suppression efforts with the support of helicopters bucketing water to extinguish the fire.
Wildfire statistics
There are currently 13 active wildfires burning in the Lac la Biche Forest Area, with 4 classified as out of control, 2 classified as being held and 7 classified as under control. Since January 1, 2025, there have been 149 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, burning a total of 73,875 ha.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is in effect for the Lac La Biche Forest Area. Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands.
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
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the restriction area on a map.
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 smoke is coming from.
Farming and agricultural equipment
Agricultural equipment can inadvertently start a wildfire. If you are using farm equipment this wildfire season, take extra precautions by having firefighting equipment on hand. Read the FireSmart Farm and Acreage Guide to learn more about farm fire safety.
Contact info
Stephen Fudge
587-919-5528
[email protected]
Published on July 20, 2025 1:35 pm