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Wildfire update

Whitecourt Forest Area - June 16, 2025

Low wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is low in the Whitecourt Forest Area due to recent rainfall and cooler temperatures. Wildfires can start in almost any condition, so please use caution when spending time outdoors. 

Information sessions 

June 16 - Alberta Forestry will be attending the Swan Hills Public Information Session about the Edith Lake wildfire at the Keyano Centre at 7:00 p.m. 

June 17 - Alberta Forestry will be attending Westlock County's Open House at the Busby Community Hall at 5:00 p.m. 

If you would like an update on the current wildfire situation or want to get started on your FireSmart journey, wildfire staff will be in attendance to answer questions. 

Wildfire situation 

Since January 1, 2025, there have been 31 wildfires that have burned 2,787 hectares (ha). 

Hubert Lake Wildfire (WWF023) 

The Hubert Lake Wildfire is located 7 km west of Fawcett and 19 km north of the community of Vega, in the Hubert Lake Wildland Provincial Park. The wildfire is approximately 2,773 hectares in size.

Thanks to the efforts of firefighters, heavy equipment and aircraft, this wildfire is classified as being held. This means that, given current weather conditions and resources, the wildfire is not anticipated to grow past existing boundaries.

Due to recent rain and cooler temperatures, the fire behaviour is low. Firefighters will monitor this wildfire for activity and respond as required. 

Get your free fire permit 

You will need a fire permit for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, with the exception of a campfire, from March 1 to October 31.

Fire permits ensure safe burning practices are being followed and allow staff to know where burning is approved so firefighters and aircraft are free to fight wildfires. Your municipality may have its own rules and restrictions in place. If you require assistance, you can call the area office at 780-778-7153 during regular business hours. 

For more details about safe burning practices, see our safe burning webpage.

FireSmart 

It can feel overwhelming to start implementing FireSmart activities, but the more you know, the easier it gets. Wherever you are in your FireSmart journey, we invite you to keep learning to incrementally reduce your risk as you gain knowledge over time. Visit FireSmart Alberta to get started. 

Contact info

Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]

Published on June 16, 2025 3:53 pm