Alberta is currently experiencing heightened wildfire risk with several new wildfire starts reported since the last update. Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen and Alberta Wildfire Information Officer Josee St. Onge provided the latest information on the wildfire situation in the province during a press conference this week.
Minister Loewen began the briefing by emphasizing the elevated wildfire risk and activity in Alberta for this time of the year. Over the past week, the province has witnessed several active wildfires, some of which were classified as out of control at various points.
The Minister highlighted the importance of downloading the Fire Band and Alberta Emergency apps, which provide up-to-date information to keep Albertans informed. He also emphasized the collaboration between Alberta Wildfire and local municipalities to contain and suppress wildfires and urged residents to stay vigilant and follow local advisories.
Alberta’s government has been actively responding to wildfires, with 200 wildfires fully extinguished so far this year. Minister Loewen pointed out that while the increased number of wildfire starts is concerning, it also indicates that response tactics are effective.
He stressed the importance of wildfire prevention and preparedness as a shared responsibility. Albertans were encouraged to familiarize themselves with fire smart principles, assess their properties for wildfire risks, and stay updated on fire bans, restrictions, and advisories in their area.
Josee St. Onge provided an operational update, revealing that as of 9 a.m., there were 63 wildfires burning in Alberta’s forest protection area. None of these wildfires are classified as out of control, with seven being held and 56 under control. Since the beginning of the year, Alberta has responded to 205 wildfires, burning approximately 755 hectares, surpassing the five-year average for this time of year.
St. Onge mentioned that Alberta Wildfire is also assisting with a mutual aid fire in the municipal district of Peace. Despite expecting cooler temperatures and some precipitation, conditions remain very dry, requiring significant and continued rain to overcome drought conditions.
She emphasized the critical time for wildfires in Alberta, with snow melting and exposing dry vegetation, making it extremely flammable. St. Onge urged all Albertans to continue doing their part to prevent human-caused wildfires and to check the Alberta Fire Ban’s website for fire bans or restrictions in their area.
During the Q&A session, questions were raised about evacuation orders, the 2023 Wildfire Report, mutual aid with municipalities, and the increase in wildfires this year. Minister Loewen and St. Onge provided detailed responses, highlighting the collaborative efforts between Alberta Wildfire, local municipalities, and other agencies to manage wildfires effectively.