Fort McMurray Forest Area - September 17, 2026
The wildfire danger is currently high in Fort McMurray and moderate in Fort Chipewyan and Fort Fitzgerald. Recent rainfall has brought some moisture to parts of the Fort McMurray Forest Area. However, warm late-summer temperatures are expected to continue through the weekend, which can cause vegetation to dry out and increase the potential for wildfires to start and spread. If you’re heading outdoors this weekend, do your part to prevent wildfires.
Wildfire situation
There are currently no active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Since January 1, there have been 54 wildfires in the forest area. To view active wildfires, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard or download the Alberta Wildfire Status app.
Hunting season is underway — make campfire safety part of your trip.
Whether you’re spending the day in the woods or staying overnight at camp, remember that a small campfire can still start a wildfire if it isn’t properly managed and extinguished.
Before leaving your site or going to bed, make sure your campfire is completely extinguished:
- Soak the fire with water.
- Stir the ashes and coals.
- Soak it again until everything is cool to the touch.
If you can still feel heat, your fire isn’t out.
Off-highway vehicles (OHV's)
- Help prevent wildfires by using vehicles and off-highway vehicles safely in dry conditions:
- Stop frequently to remove grass, mud and other debris from hot spots on your vehicle.
- Carry firefighting tools, including a shovel, pail and fire extinguisher.
Never park in tall grass. Heat from a vehicle’s exhaust system can ignite dry vegetation. Park on bare ground or gravel whenever possible.
For more information, see off-highway vehicle safety.
Published on September 17, 2026 10:29 am
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
Find active fire advisories, restrictions, bans, forest closures, off-highway vehicle restrictions and what activities are allowed.
How to choose your campfire site, prepare your campfire and properly extinguish it when you are done.
Contact info
Carley Johnson
780-799-9253
[email protected]