Slave Lake Forest Area - June 25, 2026

Wildfire situation

Since January 1, 2026, the Slave Lake Forest Area has responded to 45 wildfires and approximately 34 hectares have burned. 

There were three new wildfires caused by lightning in the Slave Lake Forest Area on June 24, 2026.

SWF045 is now classified as being held at 0.1 ha. Helicopters and crews are responding and are working to bring this wildfire under control. 

See the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard for up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, and statistics. By adjusting settings and layers on the dashboard, you can also view forest area boundaries, active fire advisories, restrictions and bans, wildfire danger ratings and much more.

Recent lightning increases likelihood of new wildfires

The Slave Lake Forest Area has experienced lightning recently. The heat from lightning can smoulder in the ground for a few days before becoming active and visible during warm and dry conditions. This is called a ‘holdover’ fire. 

Alberta Wildfire tracks each lightning strike to help pinpoint areas that have been heavily impacted by lightning. Firefighters will then patrol these areas and lookout observers will keep watch for any new wildfires.

You can help by calling 310-FIRE to report smoke or fire in the forest.

Be wildfire prepared 

• Get informed – it is your responsibility to know local information sources and have alternative ways to stay informed whether you live remotely, are travelling or are spending time in the backcountry.
  • Check fire danger ratings for your area and learn about your community’s wildfire history to help you assess current conditions and make informed decisions.
  • Download the Alberta Wildfire app for mobile devices.
  • See Alberta Wildfire for the status and location of wildfires, fire bans and restrictions and to learn more about wildfire prevention.
  • Download the WeatherCan app for advisories in your chosen location(s) and visit the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) map to track air quality in your community.
  • Visit FireSmoke Canada for information about wildland fire weather and smoke. Monitor smoke forecasts to plan for poor air quality, even when fires are far away.
• Maintain an emergency kit with essential supplies and wildfire-specific items including personal protective equipment like respirators (for example: N95, KN95 or P100) or high-quality medical masks (for example: an ASTM-certified mask). Keep your kit in a safe, easy-to-access location, even in the dark.
• If you have a vehicle, keep the tank full in case fuel stations lose power or are closed. Keep a vehicle emergency kit and include an extra phone charger with necessary adapters.
• Create an emergency plan that helps prepare your loved ones for wildfire by ensuring everyone knows where to go and how to respond, even if separated when it occurs.
• Learn about reception centres to understand what they offer and what to expect if you are directed to one during an evacuation. Learn more about reception centres on the evacuation webpage.

For more information visit the Alberta Wildfire preparedness site.