The wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is mostly high, with conditions varying across the area. Localized rain fell in northern portions of the forest area, while areas south of Highway 11 received little to no precipitation. Continued warm and dry conditions are expected over the next few days, which will further dry vegetation and increase the potential for new wildfires. Use caution during any outdoor activity and do your part to help prevent human-caused wildfires.
Wildfire response readiness
With elevated wildfire danger in parts of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, staff are taking proactive steps to ensure resources are ready for wildfire response. This includes strategically positioning crews throughout the forest area, maintaining aircraft availability for crew transport, aerial patrols and wildfire suppression, and ensuring airtankers are available when needed.
The public also plays an important role in wildfire preparedness. By recreating responsibly, following safe burning practices and reporting any signs of smoke or wildfires to 310-FIRE (3473), everyone can help support an effective wildfire response.
An Electra airtanker is staged at the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area Air Tanker Base. These aircraft are capable of carrying more than 11,000 litres of fire retardant for use in wildfire suppression operations.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory remains in effect for most of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid, but extension requests may not be granted.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis, for essential burning only.
- Safe campfires are allowed.
This fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to view a map of the advisory boundaries.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction remains in effect for parts of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area. This includes portions of the Municipal District of Bighorn and Mountain View County that fall within the Forest Protection Area.
Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires on public land, which includes random camping areas, are prohibited.
Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information, including which activities are allowed and to view a map of the fire restriction boundaries.
Campfire restrictions by location
Campfire rules vary by location, including in areas managed by Alberta Parks and Parks Canada. Before travelling, check Fire Bans in Alberta Parks and Alberta Fire Bans for your destination to confirm whether campfires are permitted and whether any additional restrictions are in place. Note that some locations are permanently under a fire ban or fire restriction.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026, the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has responded to 58 wildfires, which have burned over 1,200 hectares.
For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. By adjusting settings and layers on this site, you can also view forest area boundaries, active fire advisories, restrictions and bans, wildfire danger ratings and much more.
Contact info
Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]
Published on August 5, 2026 11:43 am