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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Lac La Biche Forest Area remains high. With hot and dry weather in the forecast, the fire danger is expected to remain elevated and may increase in the coming days. Conditions are favourable for wildfires to start easily and spread quickly, making them more challenging to control.
Wildfire situation
Medley River Wildfire (LWF132)
This wildfire is estimated at 4,708 hectares (ha) in size and remains classified as out of control. It is located in the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range. The north side of the fire remains the most active due to hot, dry weather and available fuel. Due to the type of terrain, the fire is burning deep into the ground, and the fire activity is likely to increase due to the forecasted weather. Firefighters continue working to limit further spread and strengthen containment lines.
Pelican Wildfire Complex
The Pelican Wildfire Complex includes wildfires LWF150, LWF139 and LWF131.
None of these wildfires are currently threatening communities. Sprinklers have been installed on buildings in the area as a precaution.
Although the temperatures are high, these wildfires continue to show reduced fire activity due to higher overnight humidity and lighter daytime winds. However, fire activity is likely to increase with continued hot weather in the coming days. Firefighters continue working to limit further spread and strengthen containment lines around these wildfires.
- LWF150 is estimated at 738 hectares and remains classified as out of control. It is located 45 km northwest of Wandering River. This wildfire remains most active on the east side, where it crossed the Athabasca River.
- LWF139 is now estimated at 225 hectares, based on more accurate mapping. This wildfire remains classified as out of control and is located on the west side of the Athabasca River, 25 km west of Highway 63.
- LWF131 is estimated at 29 hectares and is classified as being held. It is located 32 km northwest of Wandering River, near the west side of the Athabasca River.
Wildfire statistics
There are currently 16 active wildfires burning in the Lac la Biche Forest Area, with 5 classified as out of control, 2 classified as being held and 9 classified as under control.
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 168 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, burning a total of 74,937 ha.
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.
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
Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]
Published on July 29, 2025 5:43 pm