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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger across the Whitecourt Forest Area is high as forest fuels, such as grass and vegetation, are dry and fire risk is serious. Should a wildfire occur, moderate to intense fire behaviour is expected. Firefighting efforts may be challenging in these conditions.
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 9 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 12.05 hectares (ha). Learn more about wildfire status and view active wildfires, their locations and stats on the interactive map on our wildfire status page.
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 and into the week, we are expecting gusty winds that will create conditions for a fast moving wildfire if one does occur.
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. 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.
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.
FireSmart
More so than ever before, Canadians are feeling the direct and indirect impacts of wildfire. There is a growing need for FireSmart education. FireSmart Canada has developed a free one-hour course for those who are getting started with FireSmart and want to learn more. If you are interested, please visit FireSmart Alberta.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area due to warm conditions, strong winds and the dry grass hazard.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits remain valid.
- New permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.
- Fireworks and exploding targets are prohibited.
For more information about the fire advisory please visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on April 29, 2025 3:06 pm