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Extreme wildfire danger
The wildfire danger remains extreme for the majority of the Whitecourt Forest Area. Dry grass and vegetation can fuel a fast-moving wildfire especially in windy conditions.
If you are spending time outdoors, use extreme caution to prevent wildfires.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026 there have been 17 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 133 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
WWF017
Wildfire WWF017 is located in the area of West Ridge which is approximately 3.5 km southeast of the Town of Whitecourt and less than 1 km south of Highway 43. It is classified as being held at 51 ha.
Fire behaviour was minimal during the overnight period and into this morning. Firefighters are working from the perimeter inwards eliminating hotspots near homes, supported by helicopters.
Today, firefighters anticipate strong gusting winds up to 60 km/h from the northwest and could challenge firefighters for any hotspots within the perimeter of the fire. However, cloud cover, cooler temperatures, and higher relative humidity will help with firefighting operations.
More information regarding the evacuation alert may be found on the county website, Facebook page and on Alberta Emergency Alert.
Choose a safe campfire site
In campgrounds or recreational areas, use the designated stoves, fire rings or fire pits. The fire pit is designed to keep fires from spreading and are the best choice for a safe campfire. When outside of a campground, choose a site that is clear of dry grass and vegetation, away from low hanging branches. Clear the site down to bare mineral soil, keep it sheltered from the wind and always have water nearby in case your campfire escapes.
When you're done, always soak it, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. Never leave your campfire unattended.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory remains in effect for the Whitecourt Forest Area.
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.
Stay informed of fire advisories, restrictions and bans in your area by checking Alberta Firebans.
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.
Municipal wildfire reporting
Sharing timely information about active wildfires with Albertans is an important part of the Alberta government's approach to wildfire safety. That’s why we’ve enabled municipalities to report wildfires occurring within their borders to have them included on the Alberta Wildfire Dashboard and Alberta Wildfire Status app. The blue flame icon indicates a municipal fire. Read the map legend to understand the different flame icons.
Alberta Wildfire is also introducing response type reporting to explain how a wildfire is being managed. Wildfires within Alberta Wildfire’s jurisdiction will be assigned one of three response types:
- Full response: Immediate and aggressive suppression action is taken.
- Modified response: Some suppression action is used to contain a wildfire within a pre-determined boundary.
- Monitored response: The wildfire is observed and assessed.
Click on one of the flame icons on the wildfire map to find the response type information.
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.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on May 14, 2026 11:51 am