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Moderate wildfire danger
The wildfire danger across the Whitecourt Forest Area is at moderate. Under moderate conditions if a wildfire were to occur, creeping or gentle surface fire is likely. We're expecting high winds in the area over the weekend, please exercise caution.
In the spring the fire danger is anticipated to increase as snow melts and dead dry grass and vegetation become exposed. If you see smoke or flame in the forest and suspect it's a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025 there have been two new wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 1.51 hectares (ha). Learn more about wildfire status on our website.
Thanks to quick work from firefighters WWF002 is now considered being held. Burnt areas of grass can be seen in the tree line.
WWF002 was detected April 13, 2025 and is now classified as being held at approximately 1.50 ha. Being held means that the wildfire is not expected to grow beyond its existing boundaries, given current weather conditions and resources.
The wildfire is located approximately half of a kilometer south of the hamlet of Blue Ridge and located east of highway 658. There are 10 firefighters from Alberta Forestry working on the fire. Alberta Forestry is also working alongside the Blue Ridge fire department. Very little smoke can be seen but firefighters will continue to work on the wildfire as they look for hotspots.
Weather over the weekend
Conditions can always change quickly but today winds are expected winds are out of the west-northwest at approximately 20 km/h gusting to 40 km/h.
Spring conditions
During the spring, there is a critical time for wildfires when the dry and dead vegetation becomes exposed as the snow melts. As we continue to experience warm temperatures the grass and other vegetation dries out becoming highly flammable if a wildfire does occur. Today, we are expected to receive gusty winds and this will create conditions for a fast moving wildfire if one does occur. We are urging everyone to exercise caution when working or recreating while outdoors.
Please only burn debris under the conditions outlined on your fire permit. It is recommended that if the winds are gusting over 15 km/h or increase beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
Get your free fire permit
As of March 1, fire permits are required for all burning within the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of campfires. Visit our website to get a fire permit. If you require assistance, contact the Whitecourt Forest Area office at 780-778-7153 from 8:15 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday.
Prevent spring wildfires
We urge everyone to revisit their winter burn site and ensure the burn site is full extinguished.
- Spread out the remaining woody debris.
- Scan the ashes by looking, smelling and carefully feeling with a bare hand for any signs of smoke or heat from the pile.
- Soak hot spots and stir until they're completely extinguished.
- Check your burn site multiple times in the coming weeks to ensure it has not reignited.
- Check out this video on how to you can help prevent spring wildfires.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on April 13, 2025 3:04 pm