The wildfire danger for the Whitecourt Forest Area remains low due to recent rainfall. However, please remain cautious when spending time outdoors. Temperatures are expected to rise in the coming days, and as the fine fuels dry out, a spark, friction or hot exhaust can easily ignite a fire.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026 there have been 26 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 133 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Smoke conditions
Due to ongoing wildfire activity across Canada, smoky conditions may be present in the area. There are currently no active wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area contributing to smoke condition.
FireSmoke Canada provides hourly forecasts of smoke concentrations and identifies the source wildfires.
FireSmart your home, farm and acreage
Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow.
Flames aren’t the only threat. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers. By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire.
Visit FireSmart Alberta for information on how to get started. You can also visit the Farm and Acreage guide to learn how to reduce the risk from wildfire.
Get your free fire permit
A fire permit is required for any burning within the Forest Protection Area (FPA), except for campfires. Permits are required during wildfire season, from March 1 to October 31. Fire permits are free and can be requested online or by calling 780-778-7166. As a reminder, if the wind is gusting over 15 km/h or increases beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
Contact info
Meghan Thomas
780-728-2397
[email protected]
Published on July 22, 2026 1:34 pm