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Wildfire update

Whitecourt Forest Area - May 01, 2025

Very High wildfire danger

The wildfire danger across the Whitecourt Forest Area is very high. If a wildfire were to occur, high-intensity fire is expected. Fire is expected to start easily and to challenge suppression efforts.

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 11 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area burning a total of 12.06 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 as the snow melts and exposes dry and dead vegetation. As we continue to experience warm temperatures, the grass and other vegetation dries out becoming highly flammable. These conditions can influence a wildfire's behavior to increase in intensity if one does occur. 

dashboard screen shot from the alberta.ca website demonstrating wildfire status in Alberta

Find wildfire information 

We've updated the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. This interactive map and display provides wildfire locations, statistics and more in one convenient location. The AB Wildfire Status app remains the best option to view wildfire information on a mobile device.  

Fire restriction

A fire restriction is in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area. Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands.

Prohibited: 

  • Outdoor wood fires on public lands including backcountry and random camping areas
  • Any burning, other than a campfire on private land
  • Fireworks and exploding targets 

Allowed: 

  • Safe wood campfires on private land including provincial campgrounds with a designated fire ring
  • Backyard firepits
  • Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
  • Barbecue charcoal briquettes
  • Indoor wood fires
  • Open flame oil devices 

The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve or further escalation is required. 

Contact info

Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]

Published on May 1, 2025 2:15 pm