EDMONTON, Alberta — In a virtual news conference today, Alberta’s Forestry Minister Todd Loewen and Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis provided a comprehensive update on the province’s ongoing wildfire situation. They were joined by Christie Tucker, Alberta Wildfire Information Unit Manager, and Joe Zatylny, Deputy Managing Director with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency. The update covered the current status of wildfires, response efforts, and plans for residents affected by the fires.
Minister Mike Ellis emphasized the province’s preparedness for the anticipated hot, dry, and windy weather conditions. He highlighted that the Provincial Emergency Coordination Centre remains at level four activation, ensuring robust support for wildfire response efforts across Alberta.
Ellis addressed the particular plight of Jasper residents, whose homes have been lost or damaged. He announced that affected residents would soon have the opportunity to tour their community by bus. “We appreciate everyone’s desire to return to Jasper and see the state of their homes for themselves,” Ellis said, acknowledging the emotional toll on those impacted. He encouraged affected residents to register online at alberta.ca/emergency, where more details will be provided.
Ellis outlined stringent safety measures for the planned tours, noting that conditions in Jasper National Park are still hazardous due to ongoing wildfires and debris. He assured that the government is collaborating with Parks Canada and the municipality of Jasper to ensure the tours can proceed safely.
In addition to facilitating these tours, the government is maintaining controlled access to Highway 16, allowing commercial vehicles through under strict conditions to support the flow of goods and services. Ellis also shared positive news about other communities, such as the Municipal District of Opportunity lifting the evacuation order for the Chipewyan Lake area, allowing residents to return home.
Forestry Minister Todd Loewen provided further details on the wildfires near several communities, including the Kesa Wildfire Complex near Crescent Falls and Nordegg, and the Jasper Wildfire Complex. He noted that high winds and warm, dry weather continue to pose challenges, but firefighters have made progress with aerial support, fuel breaks, and controlled burns.
Loewen urged Albertans to be vigilant and cautious during the long weekend, highlighting the heightened risk of wildfires in the southern part of the province. “Ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect yourselves, your communities, and your province’s forests,” he advised.
The minister also spoke about the innovative use of technology in wildfire management. Drones, for instance, are being used to investigate wildfire causes, conduct infrared scanning, and locate hotspots, significantly enhancing the effectiveness of response efforts.
Christie Tucker provided a detailed overview of the current wildfire statistics and the state of various regions. As of today, there are 115 active wildfires in Alberta’s forest protection area, with 18 classified as out of control. Tucker emphasized that the wildfire danger remains extreme in the southern parts of the province, where several fires have grown in size due to recent conditions.
Tucker reiterated the importance of adhering to fire bans and restrictions, especially during high-risk periods. She urged residents to check the Alberta fire bans app or the firebans section on alberta.ca before heading out to parks, provincial recreation areas, or public lands.
The update ended with a call for continued vigilance and cooperation from all Albertans to ensure the safety and well-being of the province as it navigates through this challenging wildfire season.