The wildfire danger in the Whitecourt Forest Area is now moderate due to exposed dead and dry vegetation and forecasted wind conditions. Wildfires can still start in cool, damp conditions. Be cautious if you’re spending time outdoors and do your part to prevent wildfires.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026 there have been 33 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 157 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Wind warning
Today, strong winds are forecasted to come from the west starting this evening, gusting up to 90 km/h and possibly through the weekend. As a reminder, if the wind is gusting over 15 km/h we recommend that you extinguish your burn and monitor your project as needed to ensure it does not escape. If you see any smoke or flame in the forest call 310-FIRE (3473). At this time of year we rely heavily on public reporting. Thank you for doing your part so that firefighters can action these fires quickly.
Safe winter burning
As of November 1, fire permits are no longer required in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. However, wildfires can start any time of year when conditions are windy and dry. It's the land owner or industry representative's responsibility to ensure safe burning practices are followed to prevent human-caused wildfires.
- At least 15 cm of snow on the ground before taking on a burning project.
- Wind speeds of less than 15 km/h will lessen the chances of embers flying into nearby dry vegetation
- Avoid burning when an inversion is forecasted. Inversions happen when cold air is trapped below a layer of warm air. It causes smoke to stay close to the ground, impacting visibility and possibly causing smoke-related health concerns.
- Residents within town limits planning to conduct a burn should contact their local municipality, as permit or notification requirements may still apply.
- You can also learn more on how to prevent spring wildfires.
To assist the Whitecourt Forest Area, please let us know if you plan any large scale winter burning. Reporting large scale burning can help prevent dispatching our firefighters to non-emergency fires, especially if they can be seen near major travel corridors. Contact the radio room line directly (780) 778-7272 (leave a message if closed) with the following:
- Name of landowner burning or company and representative name
- Phone number in case of emergency
- Legal land description or latitude/longitude
- Description of the materials being burnt
Now hiring
A career with Alberta Wildfire is about more than fighting wildfires. Each season, we hire people with a wide range of skills, experience and backgrounds to support wildfire operations across the province. Opportunities include wildfire prevention, communications, dispatch, logistics, airtanker operations, lookout observers, warehouse and facilities support, data entry and more. Whether you are beginning your career, looking to build new skills or bringing years of experience to a new role, there may be a place for you on our team.
Applications are now open for wildland firefighters for the 2027 wildfire season. Apply today! Support positions will be available soon.
Hunting season
If you're heading out into the forest to hunt and you're having a campfire, keep your campfires small, safe and always attended. Before leaving the site or going to bed, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak the fire with water, stir the ashes and soak it again to ensure it’s out. The fire is fully extinguished when you can no longer feel any heat from the ashes. If operating off-highway vehicles, stop often to check for and remove grass or other debris that can build up around your machine’s exhaust and hot spots. Carry firefighting tools such as a shovel, pail and extinguisher.
Tree cutting permits for personal use
Personal Use Forest Products Permits (PUFPP) are for small-scale personal use only (no resale) for Christmas trees, firewood or transplants. PUFPP authorize Albertans to cut and removed timber from designated Crown land only. Maps are available to help you find a suitable location. Permits can be requested online or in person at your local Forestry office.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on November 6, 2026 3:34 pm