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High wildfire danger
The wildfire danger remains high for the majority of the Whitecourt Forest Area. Dry grass and vegetation will catch very easily and, if windy, could burn quickly with an increased risk of high intensity fire behaviour. If you are spending time outdoors, use extreme caution to prevent wildfires.
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 15 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 72 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
WWF015 was detected May 10 and is currently burning out of control 22 km northeast of Whitecourt, east of Blue Ridge Haul Road near the 2100 Road. It is estimated to be 2.5 ha in size. Firefighters are assisted by airtankers, helicopters and heavy equipment. A night vision equipped helicopter will be working alongside heavy equipment overnight to contain the spread of the wildfire. Residents may see or smell smoke from this wildfire due to northeast winds. If you have smoke related health concerns, you can visit the Alberta Health Services website.
WWF012 was detected May 2 and is now under control at 66 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 monitor for hot spots until it's classified as extinguished.
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.
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.
- Whitecourt Trade Show at the Whitecourt Twin Arenas on May 23-24
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on May 10, 2026 9:35 pm