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Alberta.ca Account
Wildfire update

Whitecourt Forest Area - April 19, 2025

Report a wildfire: 
310-FIRE (3473)

Alberta Wildfire application:

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger across the Whitecourt Forest Area is very high which means that high-intensity fire is expected and likely to spread to treetops. If a fire does occur it is expected to start easily and to challenge suppression efforts. We're expecting high winds in the area, please exercise caution.

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 eight wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 10.73 hectares (ha). Learn more about wildfire status and view active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.

initial smoke conditions on the wildfire WWF008 WWF008 was detected April 19 and is classified as out of control. (Photo taken at 10:54 am on initial detection). 

Firefighters are responding to a new wildfire that is currently classified as out of control at 1 ha in size. There are no threats to any communities at this time. WWF008 is located approximately 56 km southwest of Fox Creek. Specifically, it is 7.7 km southwest of where the ANC Haul road meets the Bigstone Road.

WWF007 was detected on April 18, 2025 and is located approximately 11 km southeast of Vega. This wildfire is now classified as being held and is estimated to be 7 ha. Firefighters and helicopters are working to bring the fire to an under control status. 

Windy spring conditions 

Spring 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. Today, winds are expected out of the west at approximately 30 km/h gusting to 50 km/h.  

We are urging everyone to exercise caution when working or recreating while outdoors:

  • When operating off-highway vehicles (OHVs) you should stop often to remove debris from hot spots on your vehicle.
  • Avoid parking on tall grass as the heat from your vehicle’s muffler can ignite dry vegetation.
  • Use equipment safely by keeping spark-producing machines away from dry grass.
  • When using farming equipment make sure that you clean debris from hot spots regularly. Always carry firefighting tools such as a shovel, pail, and extinguisher. 

Fire advisory

A fire advisory is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area due to warm, windy conditions and the dry grass hazard.

For more information about the fire advisory please visit Alberta Fire Bans. 

Contact info

Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]

Published on April 19, 2025 12:30 pm