Current situation

  • An evacuation order is in effect as of 12:05 p.m. today for Yellowhead County between south of Township Road 560 on the East Bank Road and west to the McLeod River.

  • An evacuation alert is in effect as of 1:35 p.m. today for Yellowhead County west of the McLeod River to Range Road 140, from Township Road 560 to Township Road 554.

  • An evacuation alert is in effect as of 1:13 p.m. today for Grande Prairie County for everyone located north of Township Road 732, west of Range Road 131 and south of Township Road 742.   

  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew Cree First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. Parts of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation remain under evacuation order. View the full list of evacuation orders.

  • Support continues to be available to Albertans 24-7. Visit alberta.ca/emergency or call 310-4455.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Albertans are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Temperatures continue to increase across the province and heat warnings are in effect over much of central Alberta. Special air quality statements remain in effect across northern Alberta. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories. Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

  • Number of evacuation orders: 4

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 2 orders and 2 alerts

  • Number of evacuees: 3,512

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Support for evacuees

  • Those evacuated due to wildfires should register at local reception centres or at emergencyregistration.alberta.ca.

  • Since the announcement of one-time emergency financial assistance for evacuees, more than 17,700 applications have been processed.

  • More than $21.4 million in e-transfers has been sent to evacuees.

  • More than $9.2 million in debit cards has been distributed.

  • Evacuees who are unable to receive an e-transfer or who cannot apply online can contact 310-4455 for assistance and to make alternate payment arrangements.

  • The Alberta Supports Centre in Fort McMurray has extended hours to support families and individuals evacuated due to the wildfire near Fort Chipewyan. A temporary evacuee debit card distribution site set up at MacDonald Island Park in Fort McMurray will close today at 8 p.m.

Donations

  • Albertans who wish to help can make cash donations through the Canadian Red Cross or within their regions to a recognized charitable organization of their choice.

  • The Canadian Red Cross is launching an Immediate Support to Not-for-Profit Organizations program to deliver urgent and ongoing support for people affected by wildfires across Alberta.

  • Eligible community organizations providing immediate relief assistance may apply for $5,000 in one-time funding. View full program eligibility criteria.

For more information on the emergency and supports for evacuees, go to alberta.ca/emergency.

Backgrounder

Previous updates

Update 35: Alberta wildfire situation (June 7, 4:30 p.m.)

  • The Municipal District of Opportunity has lifted its evacuation order for Chipewyan Lake as of June 7. Re-entry began at noon.

  • Re-entry continues for the community of Chateh. Information is available at denetha.ca.

  • Re-entry continues for the town of Rainbow Lake. Information is available at rainbowlake.ca.

  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. Parts of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation remain under evacuation order. View the full list of evacuation orders.

  • An evacuation alert is in effect for Saddle Hills County (White Mountain area) as of June 6 at 4:02 p.m.

  • Support continues to be available to Albertans 24-7. Visit alberta.ca/emergency or call 310-4455.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Albertans are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Special air quality statements remain in effect in the north and heat warnings are in effect in the south – which will expand by the end of this week. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories. Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

  • Number of evacuation orders: 3

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 2 orders and 1 alert

  • Number of evacuees: 3,600

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 34: Alberta wildfire situation (June 6, 4:30 p.m.)

  • Support continues to be available to Albertans 24-7. Visit alberta.ca/emergency or call 310-4455.

  • Re-entry continues for the community of Chateh. Information is available at denetha.ca.

  • Re-entry continues for the town of Rainbow Lake. Information is available at rainbowlake.ca.

  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. Parts of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation remain under evacuation order. View a full list of closures and restriction details.

  • The conditions in northern Alberta have relatively improved with some wildfires receiving precipitation, which has assisted with wildfire operations and limited fire behaviour.

  • The fire danger is very moderate to low for most of the boreal region except for the Grande Prairie, Slave Lake, Whitecourt and Edson areas where the fire danger is high to very high.

  • There are currently 65 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 19 are classified as out of control, 17 are being held and 29 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Albertans are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories. Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

  • Number of evacuation orders: 4

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 2 orders

  • Number of evacuees: 3,600

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 33: Alberta wildfire situation (June 5, 4:30 p.m.)

  • The 2023 spring wildfires state of emergency expired on June 3 at 11:59 p.m.

  • Support remains available 24-7. Visit alberta.ca/emergency or call 310-4455.

  • Officials have deemed the community of Chateh safe for re-entry, which began on June 5 at 9 a.m. Information is available at denetha.ca.

  • Re-entry continues for the town of Rainbow Lake. Information is available at rainbowlake.ca.

  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. Parts of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation remain under evacuation order. View a full list of closures and restriction details.

  • The conditions in northern Alberta have relatively improved, with some wildfires receiving precipitation overnight, which have assisted with wildfire operations and limited fire behaviour.

  • The fire danger is very moderate to low for most of the boreal region except for the Grande Prairie, Slave Lake, Whitecourt and Edson areas where the fire danger is high to very high.

  • Fire danger for the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains from Jasper National Park to Calgary is very high, while the southern Rockies will experience extreme fire behaviour.

  • There are currently 64 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 18 are classified as out of control, 20 are being held and 26 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Albertans are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke. 

  • Number of evacuation orders: 5

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 2 orders

  • Number of evacuees: 4,334

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 32: Alberta wildfire situation (June 4, 5:00 p.m.)

  • The 2023 Spring Wildfires state of emergency expired on June 3, 2023 at 11:59 p.m.
  • Support remains available 24/7. Visit alberta.ca/emergency or call 310-4455.
  • Re-entry continues for the Town of Rainbow Lake. Information  available at rainbowlake.ca.
  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. View a full list of closures and restriction details.
  • Albertans who have been evacuated or are returning home should continue to follow updates from their local authorities.
  • The fire danger continues to be very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.
  • There are currently 59 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 16 are classified as out-of-control, 18 are being held and 25 are under control.
  • 506 wildfires have been extinguished so far in 2023.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Albertans are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke. 
  • Number of evacuation orders: 5
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 2 orders
  • Number of evacuees: 4,334
  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,600 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 31: Alberta wildfire situation (June 3, 5:00 p.m.)

  • The 2023 Spring Wildfires state of emergency expires on June 3, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. A provincial state of emergency in Alberta automatically expires after 28 days.
  • Today was the last scheduled media availability regarding the Alberta wildfire situation, but these situation updates will continue to be issued each day. Future media availabilities will be held if circumstances change and there are significant updates to report.
  • The Town of Rainbow Lake has lifted its evacuation order as of 9 a.m., June 2. Information for re-entry is available at rainbowlake.ca.
  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. View a full list of closures and restriction details.
  • The fire danger continues to be very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.
  • Albertans planning weekend activities are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • There are currently 58 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 15 are classified as out-of-control, 17 are being held and 26 are under control.
  • 504 wildfires have been extinguished so far in 2023.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Fire bans in some areas have changed to restrictions. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health. 
  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency until 11:59 p.m. June 3. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • Number of evacuation orders: 5
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 2 orders
  • Number of evacuees: 4,334
  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,600 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 30: Alberta wildfire situation (June 2, 5:00 p.m.)

  • The Town of Rainbow Lake has lifted its evacuation order as of 9 a.m., June 2. Information for re-entry is available at rainbowlake.ca.
  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. View a full list of closures and restriction details.
  • Weather patterns show dry conditions and light winds from the east and northeast throughout the province, with scattered showers over the foothills and southeastern Alberta.
  • The fire danger continues to be very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.
  • Albertans planning weekend activities are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • There are currently 56 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 15 are classified as out of control, 17 are being held and 24 are under control.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Fire bans in some areas have changed to restrictions. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
  • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
  • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health. 
  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
    • Number of evacuation orders: 5
    • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 3 orders
    • Number of evacuees: 4,417
  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,600 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 29: Alberta wildfire situation (June 1, 5:00 p.m.)

  • An evacuation order remains in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. View a full list of closures and restriction details.

  • Weather patterns show a cold front bringing thunderstorms over northeastern Alberta by late afternoon. A weak trough will lie along the Eastern Slopes bringing thundershowers to the region.

  • The fire danger continues to be very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.

  • Albertans planning weekend activities are asked to do their part to prevent new wildfires by respecting fire bans or restrictions in their areas. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • There are currently 60 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 17 are classified as out of control, 17 are being held and 26 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Fire bans in some areas have changed to restrictions. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health. 

  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • Number of evacuation orders: 6

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 3 orders

  • Number of evacuees: 4,325

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,600 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

Update 28: Alberta wildfire situation (May 31, 5:00 p.m.)

  • Weather patterns show scattered showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening across the southern boreal and northern slopes.

  • The fire danger continues to be very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.

  • There are currently 61 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 16 are classified as out of control, 21 are being held and 24 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Fire bans in some areas changed to restrictions on May 26. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health. 

  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • Number of evacuation orders: 6

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 3

  • Number of evacuees: 4,401

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,600 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.                                                                                                             

  • New information

    • An evacuation order is in effect for the hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate), Fort Chipewyan Metis Nation and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation.

    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 27: Alberta wildfire situation (May 30, 5:00 p.m.)

  • Weather patterns are showing a weak low developing over the Eastern Slopes, bringing showers and thunderstorms to the southwest boreal through to the Bow/Calgary zone.

  • The fire danger continues to be very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.

  • There are currently 64 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 18 are classified as out of control, 19 are being held and 27 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Fire bans in some areas changed to restrictions on May 26. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health. 

  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • Number of evacuation orders: 5

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 3 (2 orders, 1 advisory)

  • Number of evacuees: 3,501

  • Alberta currently has approximately 2,600 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.                                                                  

  • New information

    • On May 28, several new wildfires emerged in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.

      • An evacuation alert is in effect for the Hamlet of Fort Chipewyan, Mikisew First Nation (Allison Bay, Dog Head and Devils Gate) and Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation.

    • The MD of Greenview has cancelled its evacuation alert effective May 30.

    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 26: Alberta wildfire situation (May 29, 5:00 p.m.)

  • The fire danger is very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province.

  • A red flag watch has been issued for the northern boreal forest (High Level, Fort Vermilion, Fort Chipewyan and Fort McMurray zones). A red flag watch occurs when weather and fuel conditions are ideal for wildland fire combustion and rapid spread. 

  • Weather patterns are showing another cold front moving across the boreal forest and it’s expected to lie across central Alberta by evening. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected.

  • There are currently 60 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 18 are classified as out of control, 17 are being held and 25 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Fire bans in some areas changed to restrictions on May 26. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health. 

  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • Number of evacuation orders: 5

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 4 (2 orders, 2 advisories)

  • Number of evacuees: 3,501

  • Alberta currently has more than 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

  • New information

    • On May 28, several new wildfires emerged in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. No evacuation orders or alerts are in place at this time. The province is monitoring this wildfire closely.

    • The Town of Valleyview has cancelled its evacuation alert effective May 29.

    • The Town of Swan Hills has cancelled its evacuation alert effective May 29.

    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 25: Alberta wildfire situation (May 28, 5:30 p.m.)

  • The fire danger is very high or extreme in the northern regions of the province, moderate to very high in the central and southern regions, and moderate to very high from the central region to the northern slopes of the Rocky Mountains.
  • Weather patterns are showing a chance of isolated showers or thunderstorms in central and northeast regions. No widespread rain is expected. Strong winds are expected, especially across the north. Special air quality statements remain in effect for northern Alberta.
  • There are currently 57 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 17 are classified as out of control, 17 are being held and 23 are under control.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Fire bans in some areas changed to restrictions on May 26. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Alberta continues to be under a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • Number of evacuation orders: 5
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 6 (2 orders, 4 advisories)
  • Number of evacuees: 3,501
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,700 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • New information
    • The Alberta Supports centres in Leduc, Parkland, Slave Lake, Edson, Rocky Mountain House, Red Deer and Wetaskiwin have ended extended hours and have returned to regular hours.
    • Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation has successfully completed Phase 2 of re-entry and has now begun Phase 3.
    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 24: Alberta wildfire situation (May 27, 6:30 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • The fire danger is very high in the northern regions of the province, moderate to high in the central and southern regions, and low from the central region to the northern slopes of the Rocky Mountains.
  • Weather patterns are showing a minimal chance of isolated showers or thunderstorms along the foothills or in the north-central regions. Special air quality statements remain in effect for northern Alberta.
  • There are currently 50 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 14 are classified as out of control, 14 are being held and 22 are under control.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Effective May 26, fire bans in some areas changed to restrictions. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.
    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Evacuation orders: 6
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 7 (3 orders, 4 advisories)
  • Number of evacuees: 5,257
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • New information:
    • The Alberta Supports centres in Leduc, Parkland, Slave Lake, Edson, Rocky Mountain House, Red Deer and Wetaskiwin have ended extended hours and have returned to regular hours.
    • Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation has successfully completed Phase 2 of re-entry and has now begun Phase 3.
    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 23: Alberta wildfire situation (May 26, 5:00 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • The fire danger is very high in the northern regions of the province, moderate to high in the central and southern regions, and low from the central region to the northern slopes of the Rocky Mountains.

  • Weather patterns are showing a minimal chance of isolated showers or thunderstorms along the foothills or north-central regions. Special air quality statements remain in effect for northern Alberta.

  • There are currently 50 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 14 are classified as out of control, 13 are being held and 23 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.

  • Evacuation orders: 6

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 9 (3 orders, 6 advisories)

  • Number of evacuees: 5,257

  • Alberta currently has more than 2,300 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

  • New information:

    • Effective May 26, fire bans in some areas have changed to restrictions. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

    • The Alberta Supports centres in Leduc, Parkland, Slave Lake, Edson, Rocky Mountain House, Red Deer and Wetaskiwin will end extended hours at 8 p.m. today, returning to regular hours on May 29.

    • Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation began Phase 2 of re-entry at 12:30 p.m. today.

    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 22: Alberta wildfire situation (May 25, 5:00 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • Fire danger is moderate in the north and east of the province, extreme in the upper northeast region and low in the central-west and along the eastern slopes of the Rockies.

  • Today’s weather patterns bring a slight chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms over western and northwestern parts of the province. Special air quality statements remain in effect for northern Alberta.

  • There are currently 55 active wildfires in the Forest Protection Area. Of these wildfires, 16 are classified as out of control, 14 are being held and 25 are under control.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.

  • Evacuation orders: 7

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 9 (3 orders, 6 advisories)

  • Number of evacuees: 5,379

  • Alberta currently has more than 2,373 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces. 

  • New information

    • Effective May 26 at 10 a.m., fire bans in some areas will change to restrictions. Visit albertafirebans.ca for details.

    • Evacuation orders have been lifted in the Sturgeon Lake area and for East Prairie Metis Settlement and Peavine Metis Settlement.

    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 21: Alberta wildfire situation (May 24, 5:00 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction are in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • Fire danger remains moderate to very high in northern Alberta and low to high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies.
  • Much of western and central Alberta received showers over the past 24 hours, dissipating smoke and easing wildfire intensity in some areas.
  • Today’s weather patterns bring the possibility of intermittent, isolated showers and thunderstorms to parts of the province.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Evacuation orders: 9
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 14 (6 orders, 8 advisories)
  • Number of evacuees: 6,852
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,700 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States, as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.  
  • New information
    • The City of Calgary will close its evacuee reception centre at 5 p.m. on May 24.
    • Evacuation orders for O’Chiese First Nation, the town of Swan Hills, town of Fox Creek, hamlet of Little Smoky, MD of Greenview, the Sturgeon Lake area and East Prairie Metis Settlement have been lifted. Certain communities returning home remain under four-hour evacuation alert.
    • View a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 20: Alberta wildfire situation (May 23, 6 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction is in place across the Forest Protection Area.

  • Tuesday saw a continuation of the showers that started in the province Monday, as well as the lower fire behaviour that resulted from that.

  • Weather patterns are bringing some precipitation to the west and central areas of the province.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  

    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.

  • Evacuation orders: 15

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 13 (eight orders, five alerts)

  • Number of evacuees: 10,655

  • Alberta currently has more than 2,700 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

  • New information

    • The City of Edmonton has closed the Drayton Valley and Brazeau County evacuee reception centre at EXPO Centre as of 4 p.m. on May 23 due to the easing wildfire situation in those two areas.

    • The City of Calgary will close its evacuee reception centre at 5 p.m. on May 24.

    • You can view a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 19: Alberta wildfire situation (May 22, 5 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction is in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • The fire danger remains very high to extreme in northern Alberta and high to very high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Winds are expected to shift over the weekend.
  • Widespread, steady rain is expected through Tuesday, with west-central regions expected to see the highest precipitation amounts.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca, to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential effects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Evacuation orders: 16
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 18 (10 orders, 8 alerts)
  • Number of evacuees: 10,872
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,700 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • An additional 24 firefighters from the northwestern United States have arrived in the province.
  • New information
    • While fire danger remains extreme throughout most of the province, a voluntary recreation restriction on public lands and a number of provincial park closures are in effect for the long weekend.
    • You can view a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 18: Alberta wildfire situation (May 21, 5 p.m.)

  • Albertans are asked to continue doing their part to limit new wildfire starts as extreme fire conditions are expected to persist through the critical May long weekend period.
  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction is in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • The fire danger remains very high to extreme in northern Alberta and high to very high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Winds are expected to shift over the weekend.
  • Widespread, steady rain is expected to begin early Monday morning and continue through Tuesday, with west-central regions expected to see the highest precipitation amounts.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Keep up-to-date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca, to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential affects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Evacuation orders: 17
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 19 (11 orders, 8 alerts)
  • Number of evacuees: 10,678
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,700 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • An additional 24 firefighters from the northwestern United States have arrived in the province.
  • New information
    • While fire danger remains extreme throughout most of the province, a voluntary recreation restriction on public lands and a number of provincial park closures are in effect for the long weekend.
    • You can view a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 17: Alberta wildfire situation (May 20, 5:30 p.m.)

  • Albertans are asked to do their part to limit new wildfire starts as extreme fire hazards are expected to persist through the critical May long weekend period.
  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction is in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • The fire danger remains very high to extreme in northern Alberta and high to very high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Winds are expected to shift over the weekend.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Ensure you remain up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Visit airquality.alberta.ca, to find out the level of health risk associated with your local air quality.  
    • Learn more about the potential affects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Evacuation orders: 17
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 17 (10 orders, 7 alerts)
  • Number of evacuees: 10,673
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • An additional 24 firefighters from the northwestern United States are expected to arrive over the weekend.                                                                                                    
  • New information
    • While fire danger remains extreme throughout most of the province, a voluntary recreation restriction on public lands and a number of provincial park closures are in effect ahead of the long weekend.
    • You can view a full list of closures and restriction details.

Update 16: Alberta wildfire situation (May 19, 5:30 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.

  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction is in place across the Forest Protection Area.

  • The fire danger remains very high to extreme in northern Alberta and high to very high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Winds are expected to shift over the weekend.

  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Ensure you remain up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.

    • Learn more about the potential affects of wildfire smoke on your health.

  • Evacuation orders: 17

  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 19 (10 orders, nine alerts)

  • Number of evacuees: 10,523

  • Alberta currently has more than 2,800 personnel working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.

  • An additional 24 firefighters from the northwestern United States are expected to arrive over the weekend.

  • While fire danger remains extreme throughout most of the province, a voluntary recreation restriction on public lands and a number of provincial park closures are in effect ahead of the long weekend.

  • You can view a full list of closures and restriction details.

  • The Municipal District of Lesser Slave Lake has issued an evacuation order for all residents along Old Smith Highway, from Township Road 715 (Smith Bridge) to Range Road 45 (Tollenaars Bridge).

  • The Municipal District of Greenview has partially rescinded its current evacuation order, including for areas around Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation.

  • The MD of Greenview has expanded its evacuation order around the area of the town of Fox Creek and hamlet of Little Smoky, specifically affecting industrial sites in the area.

  • Yellowhead County has expanded the wildfire evacuation for some areas.

Update 15: Alberta wildfire situation (May 18, 5:30 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction are in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • The fire danger is very high to extreme in northern Alberta and high to very high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Increasingly hot and dry conditions are expected in the coming days.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Some communities remain affected by poor air quality. Ensure you remain up to date on special air quality statements and advisories.
    • Learn more about the potential affects of wildfire smoke on your health.
  • Evacuation orders: 17
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 18 (10 orders, eight alerts)
  • Number of evacuees: 10,523
  • Alberta has more than 2,500 personnel currently working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • An additional 113 firefighters from the United States and 18 firefighters from the Yukon are expected in the coming days.                                                   

Update 14: Alberta wildfire situation (May 17, 5:30 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction are in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • The fire danger is very high to extreme in northern Alberta and high along the eastern slopes of the Rockies. Increasingly hot and dry conditions are expected later this week.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • Air quality remains poor as wildfire smoke continues to drift into communities.
    • Learn more about the potential affects of wildfire smoke on your health.
    • Wildfire smoke can travel long distances. Visit firesmoke.ca to see where the smoke affecting your area is coming from.
  • Evacuation orders: 20
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 17 (12 orders, five alerts)
  • Number of evacuees: 11,990
  • Alberta has more than 2,500 personnel currently working on wildfires. This includes support from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces.
  • An additional 21 personnel are arriving today from New Brunswick.

Update 13: Alberta wildfire situation (May 16, 5:30 p.m.)

  • The evacuation order has been lifted for the Town of Drayton Valley and parts of Brazeau County. Re-entry began at 2 p.m.
  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • The fire danger is extreme in northern Alberta with temperatures expected to increase again toward the end of this week. A moderate to high fire rating remains for the Rockies.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction are in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • Parts of Alberta are experiencing moderate to high-risk smoky conditions. 
    • Learn more about the potential affects of wildfire smoke on your health.
    • Wildfire smoke can travel long distances.
    • Visit firesmoke.ca to see where the smoke affecting your area is coming from.
  • Evacuation orders: 23
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 17 (12 critical alerts, five advisories)
  • Number of evacuees: 19,576
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,500 wildland firefighters, including personnel from partner agencies across Canada and the United States as well as the Canadian Armed Forces, 165 helicopters, 31 fixed-wing aircraft, and heavy equipment responding to wildfires in the province.
  • An additional 61 personnel are arriving today from Ontario, with 21 expected to arrive from New Brunswick tomorrow.  
  • New information:
    • A mandatory evacuation order was issued for the town of Swan Hills at 1:15 p.m.
    • The evacuation order has been lifted for the town of Drayton Valley and parts of Brazeau County.
    • Re-entry operations for the town of Drayton Valley began at 2 p.m. today.
    • Local municipalities, First Nations and Metis Settlements may require financial assistance to compensate volunteer firefighters who may not be able to leave their regular jobs in order to join or continue firefighting efforts. Alberta’s government is providing additional support for local firefighting costs to help strengthen the province’s response capacity, improve public safety and assist communities during an unprecedented wildfire season.

Update 12: Alberta wildfire situation (May 15, 5 p.m.)

  • Alberta has declared a provincial state of emergency. Visit alberta.ca/emergency for information or call 310-4455, now available 24-7.
  • The fire danger is extreme in northern Alberta with hot, dry, windy conditions expected to persist in the coming days. A moderate to high rating is expected for the southern Rockies.
  • Current wildfire information is available on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
  • A fire ban and an off-highway vehicle restriction are in place across the Forest Protection Area.
  • Evacuation orders: 15
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts: 17 (seven orders, five critical alerts, four advisories)
  • Number of evacuees: 19,294
  • Alberta currently has more than 2,500 wildland firefighters, 165 helicopters, 25 fixed-wing aircraft, and heavy equipment responding to wildfires in the province.
    • 1,649 Alberta Wildfire personnel are deployed across the province.
    • More than 600 wildland firefighters have come from British Columbia, Quebec, Ontario, the Yukon, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Oregon, Alaska, Washington, Montana and Parks Canada to support ongoing operations.
    • There are currently 300 Canadian Armed Forces personnel assisting operations, providing resources and basic firefighting roles, airlift resources for mobility a