Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen, alongside Alberta Wildfire staff, provided an extensive update on the current wildfire activity and ongoing response efforts in the province. This week’s briefing focused on the general wildfire situation, danger levels across Alberta, and the steps being taken to manage and mitigate the fires.
Minister Loewen began the briefing with a positive note, announcing that Alberta had successfully met its hiring targets for the wildfire season. This includes the addition of 100 seasonal government wildland firefighters, a commitment made possible by Budget 2024. Although a few firefighters will start next week, the hiring goal was reached by the May 15th target date.
Despite some recent rainfall in parts of the province, wildfire danger remains elevated in many areas. Alberta is currently combating two out-of-control wildfires near Fort McMurray. The wildfire southwest of Fort McMurray is under unified command with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and remains out of control. Another wildfire north of Fort McMurray is currently being held.
As of the latest reports, there are 44 active wildfires within Alberta’s forest protection area. Of these, only one is out of control, while five are being held and the rest are under control. This year, 323 wildfires have burned over 30,000 hectares of forest, a significant reduction compared to the same period last year when over 460,000 hectares were affected.
Minister Loewen reiterated the availability of emergency evacuation payments for residents displaced for seven or more days. Eligible evacuees can receive $1,250 per adult and $500 per dependent child under 18. However, only those under a formal evacuation order are eligible for these payments; voluntary evacuees are not.
The minister stressed the importance of preventative actions by the public to reduce the risk of human-caused wildfires. “Now more than ever, it is crucial that Albertans take necessary precautions,” Loewen said. He urged residents to stay informed about fire bans, restrictions, and advisories in their areas and to avoid activities that could spark new wildfires.
Christie Tucker from Alberta Wildfire provided further operational updates. Despite some challenges posed by wet ground conditions in muskeg areas, which hinder heavy equipment movement, efforts continue unabated. The Kesin Creek fire, located four kilometers east of the town of Tepre Creek, is now classified as being held. A new wildfire detected north of Fort McMurray is also being held at less than one hectare in size.
While rain and cooler temperatures are expected to aid firefighting efforts in some parts of the province, the northern regions, particularly the high-level area, are forecasted to remain dry and warm. This weather pattern necessitates continued vigilance, especially as the May long weekend approaches—a peak period for new wildfire starts.
Both Minister Loewen and Tucker emphasized the importance of safe behavior during the long weekend. Campers and outdoor enthusiasts are advised to check for active fire bans and restrictions, properly extinguish campfires, and report any signs of smoke or flames by calling 310-FIRE. “67% of wildfires are caused by people,” Tucker noted, highlighting the crucial role of public cooperation in wildfire prevention.
The next scheduled wildfire update is set for Thursday. However, if conditions change significantly, an additional update will be provided sooner.