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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is high in the Whitecourt Forest Area and vegetation is rapidly drying out. Rising temperatures and windy conditions are expected to increase wildfire risk later this week. A wildfire can easily ignite and spread quickly in these conditions. Please use extra caution when spending time outdoors.
Wildfire situation
Hubert Lake Wildfire (WWF023)
The Hubert Lake Wildfire is located 7 km west of Fawcett, 19 km north of the community of Vega, in the Hubert Lake Wildland Provincial Park. The wildfire is classified as out of control and is approximately 2,779 hectares in size.
Firefighters continue working to contain this wildfire. Crews are focused on reinforcing containment along the south side of the fire, with helicopters supporting suppression efforts in areas with increased fire activity. Natural features, such as lakes and water bodies, are helping limit the wildfire’s spread on the north, east and west sides.
Structure protection crews remain staged within the affected area.
Westlock County evacuation order
The evacuation order for Hubert Lake Provincial Park area remains in effect. For more information, visit Alberta Emergency Alert or download the app. Updates are also available on the Westlock County website.
The Hubert Lake Wildfire is part of the Swan Complex (SCX002), which also includes the Edith Lake Wildfire (SWF076) in the Slave Lake Forest Area. For details, visit the Slave Lake Forest Area Wildfire Update. For information on the Swan Complex, contact Colby Lachance at 780-286-4332 or [email protected].
Since January 1, 2025, there have been 29 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 2,792 hectares. Learn more about active wildfires, their locations and statistics on the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Fire ban
A fire ban is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area. Under this ban, all outdoor wood fires are prohibited and existing fire permits are suspended.
Prohibited:
- All outdoor wood fires, including wood campfires on public and private land, designated fire pits and backyard fire pits
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed:
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
The fire ban will remain in effect until conditions improve. Visit Alberta Fire Bans for more information and to see the boundaries.
Not worth the risk
Respecting the regulations around the use of fire in the Forest Protection Area helps prevent wildfires and protect live, homes, livelihoods and landscapes.
The Forest and Prairie Protection Act outlines hefty fines for those who do not follow the rules:
- Burning without a permit: $350
- Leaving a campfire unattended: $600
- Starting a fire during a fire ban: $600
- Setting off explosives/fireworks in the forest protection area: $600
- Operating an OHV during a ban or closure: $1200
Unsure what activities are permitted in specific locations? Contact the Whitecourt forestry office 780-778-7153.
Contact info
Jacquie Dewar
780-268-5175
[email protected]
Published on June 4, 2025 4:34 pm