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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger is high for a majority of the Whitecourt Forest Area while the Swan Hills area and the northern boundary of the forest area remain moderate due to higher levels of snow cover. The wildfire risk will continue to increase as the snow melts exposing dry, dead grass that can ignite and spread easily.
Fire advisory
The continued warm temperatures and dry vegetation can create conditions where wildfires start easily and spread quickly. Be cautious when spending time outdoors and avoid activities that could potentially spark a wildfire.
Under this advisory:
- Existing fire permits are valid. Permit holders must follow all safe burning conditions outlined on the permit.
- New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis for essential burning only.
- Safe campfires are allowed.
Prohibited:
- Any burning without a valid fire permit is prohibited, except for campfires.
When operating machinery like off-highway vehicles or farm equipment, always carry firefighting tools such as a shovel, fire extinguisher and a pail. Never leave a campfire unattended, and make sure it is fully extinguished by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again. Stay informed of fire restrictions and fire bans in your area by checking Alberta Fire Bans.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026 there have been 12 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 63 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
WWF012
WWF012 was detected May 2 and is now under control at 60 ha in size. The wildfire is located approximately 5.1 km south of the hamlet of Blue Ridge and approximately 1 km west of highway 658. Firefighters will continue to extinguish hotspots. Smoke may be visible in the area.
Hazard reduction burning
Alberta Forestry may be working alongside municipal fire departments with multiple hazard reduction burns in the coming weeks if conditions allow. These burns would reduce the overall wildfire risk in the area by removing dead and dry grass and other flammable vegetation. Once the burns are complete, firefighters will patrol the area, extinguishing any remaining hotspots and return when required to ensure it's fully extinguished.
Blue Ridge
The burn will be located west of highway 658 and south of the Athabasca River. Residents and highway traffic may see large columns of smoke north of Blue Ridge.
Fox Creek
The burn is planned for May 7, 2026 and will take place only if conditions allow. Firefighters will burn an area east of the airport and north of highway 43. Residents and highway traffic may see large columns of smoke in the area.
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.
Seeking your input
Forest area updates are an important way we share the latest information with Albertans. We’ve developed a short survey to determine if the updates are meeting your needs. Share your thoughts today.
Join Alberta Forestry at a nearby event
Join Alberta Forestry to learn about wildfire prevention, operations and FireSmart recommendations. Stay tuned for more upcoming events.
- Fox Creek Emergency Preparedness BBQ May 7
- Whitecourt Trade Show at the Whitecourt Twin Arenas on May 23-24
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on May 4, 2026 1:04 pm