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Moderate wildfire danger
The wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is now moderate. Areas that have received sufficient snowfall amounts remain under low wildfire danger, however some portions of the forest area are now dealing with exposed dead and dry vegetation. Above average temperatures are expected to continue, contributing to melting snow and drying conditions. Strong, gusting winds are underway in some areas and are expected to continue in the short term.
Warm temperatures, winds and dry vegetation create ideal conditions for wildfires to ignite and spread.
Wildfire situation
Due to very strong winds and warm chinook conditions, the status of RWF006 is now classified as out of control. The estimated size is 275 hectares. Firefighters from the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, along with industry partners, are on site working to contain this wildfire. It is located 2.5 km west of the Forestry Trunk Road (Highway 40/734) and north of the James River. This wildfire is not currently a risk to nearby communities or infrastructure, however, smoke from the fire may be visible.
The Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has responded to six wildfires since January 1, 2026.
For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Check winter burn sites
Now is also a good time to revisit any burn sites from earlier in the winter. Even if a fire appears fully extinguished, you should closely monitor the area for any signs of activity. Fires can remain dormant under snow or vegetation and may quickly reignite during periods of strong winds.
Many winter burning projects are currently visible across the landscape, which can lead to smoky conditions. While winter is generally the safest time to conduct these burns, the warmer temperatures and strong winds in the region mean we strongly recommend pausing activities until there is more snow cover and colder conditions, to lower the risk of fire spreading.
For more information on how to conduct safe winter burning, see our safe burning guidelines.
Contact info
Anastasia Drummond
403-818-0938
[email protected]
Published on February 4, 2026 3:14 pm