Evacuation ALERT - No evacuation is required currently.
Update: Fire Advisory, FireSmart, Woodlands County Daily Updates Discontinued
Edson Forest Area, Alberta Wildfire, Domestic Response Company, Canadian Brigade Group - The military is working alongside AB Wildfire, searching for and extinguishing hotspots on EWF035. (May 24, 2023)
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Woodlands County has removed the evacuation alert for the southern portion of the municipality. Crews will be in the areas removing suppression equipment in the coming day(s).
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 - Eagle Complex, SWF063, SWF064 - Grizzly Complex
While much of the region welcomed precipitation, fire hazards remain. Stay away from burnt areas and give ground and air crews space as they continue operations.
Woodlands County's Evacuation ALERT for the southern portion of the municipality remains in place. https://bit.ly/3MudORO
Yellowhead County lifted its remaining Evacuation Order. View details of what's happening in their County by visiting: https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty
Town of Swan Hills and Town of Fox Creek have active Orders in place (24 May, 830am). Visit their social media pages for the latest information.
FIRE BAN AND OHV RESTRICTION IN EFFECT
Not all areas received moisture and high-risk wildfire situations are present.
No outdoor wood fires.
No recreational off-highway vehicles.
BE PATIENT. BE SMART. Save the adventures when the risk is not threatening people and property.
https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
As always, our partner agencies at Alberta Wildfire provide regular updates to keep everyone informed.
View the latest about Eagle Fire and Grizzly Complex near Swan Hills below the Edson Forest Area Update.
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
Deep ash pits and burning peat are dangerous. We ask residents to be extra cautious when near burnt areas.
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 20,996 ha in size. The fire boundary was re-assessed with a helicopter and the size was changed to reflect the new boundary. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Junction. The fire moved across the Range Rd 123 and burnt up to the Lobstick River.
Firefighters did not observe very much fire activity again today, due to the higher relative humidity, cooler temperatures, and the 32mm of precipitation we received over the past 72 hours. More precipitation will be required to significantly improve the dry conditions. Todayโs rain did allow firefighters to continue working on containing the wildfire.
Wildland firefighters continue to work with heavy equipment to contain the wildfire on the southeast section of the fire. They also worked on hot areas near the south-southeast and plan to return tomorrow. A completed containment line made up of dozer guard, natural breaks from East Bank Road to Range Rd 131 is established. Helicopters were available today to assist on the fire and our aircraft were able to fly today.
The complex has 66 wildland firefighters, eight helicopters, 26 pieces of heavy equipment and 25 overhead staff that are part of the incident management team. These personnel consist of heavy equipment coordinators, aircraft supervisors, task force leaders who work with the crews in the field, information officers who share information with the public and other key stakeholders such as industry. It also consists of logistics, facilities and equipment managers who ensure that firefighters are fed, lodged, and have hot showers and tools to do their job safely. A large team like this also requires a finance team to ensure they track costs and payments. The camp is also prepared to receive many more firefighters in the coming weeks and can support up to 153 personnel. There are three other similar camps supporting the two complexes in our forest area.
By: Tara Stephens.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341
Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
WWF-023 detected on May 5, is listed as out of control at 72,830 ha. Firefighters saw no further growth towards Fox Creek today.
Crews continued working in from the perimeter along the fire guard along the Iosegun Lake road. Along the excursion south of Highway 43 firefighters built more hose line along the wildfire and heavy equipment groups are establishing more fire breaks along that same line.
There are more than 139 firefighters and support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners assisting Alberta on the complex include firefighters from Colorado, New Brunswick and soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment.
For a second day weather conditions kept helicopters on the ground today. There are currently 15 helicopters assigned to the Eagle complex.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Weather Today, Showers and thunderstorms advance north into the boreal and taper as an upper level low weakens. Expect heaviest rainfall in the northeast foothills with 10-20 additional mm.
GWF-027 was detected on May 13 and is out of control at 54,274 ha. Two dozer groups and crews worked the southern edge of the wildfire today.
Slave Lake Forest Area Wildfire
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
SWF-063 is located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie, and sixteen kilometers northwest of Swan Hills, is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 123,670 hectares. In the northwestern portion of the wildfire, firefighters continue to extinguish hotspots in the Banana Belt and East Prairie Metis Settlement areas. Heavy equipment continues to build fire guards around the edge of wildfire excursions. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order.
Edson Forest Area, Alberta Wildfire: Members of the Domestic Response Company, 41 Canadian Brigade Group assisting on EWF-035 (May 23, 2023)
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 - Eagle Complex, SWF063, SWF064 - Grizzly Complex
FIRE BANS remain in place. The Forest Protection Areas across Alberta are under strict fire bans to help prevent further wildfires in these high risk continues. View approved and prohibited activities by visiting https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 20,996 ha in size. The fire boundary was re-assessed with a helicopter and the size was changed to reflect the new boundary. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Junction. The fire moved across the Rge Rd 123 and burnt up to the Lobstick River.
Firefighters did not observe very much fire activity again today, thanks to the higher relative humidity, cooler temperatures and more precipitation. The precipitation received wasnโt significant enough to change the dry conditions but did allow firefighters to continue working on containing the wildfire. The fire had a few flare ups in the interior, but mostly smouldered on the southern edge where the newest activity was happening.
We expect similar conditions tomorrow, with cool temperatures and much more rain.
Firefighters continued to establishing new containment lines and building onto existing ones on the southern boundary of the fire. A guard was completed from East Bank Road to Rge Rd 130. Helicopters assisted firefighters on the southwest side, bucketing hotspots. They also worked on hot areas near the south-southeast and plan to return tomorrow.
Helicopters were available to assist on the fire and our aircraft were able to fly.
Wildfire firefighters continue to work with heavy equipment containing the fire on the western and northwestern side of the fire. A completed containment line made up of dozer guard, natural breaks and hand ignition burning is in place on the east side of East Bank Road.
Firefighters will continue to patrol the boundaries and extinguish hotspots on the edge. Residents will notice hotspots within the interior, and this is very common for larger wildfires. Fire specialists must be confident that the fire is contained and once thatโs established, theyโll start to work from the edges out and work their way in, searching for hotspots by looking and smelling for smoke, and feeling with their bare hands for heat. Once found, they must dig it up with hand tools and put them out with water. This process can take a very long time, simply putting water on a wildfire does not extinguish it as fires can burn deep into the ground and re-surface later when the conditions are favorable to burn.
The northeast of the fire was patrolled again, and no heat was found along the edges of the wildfire. Firefighters were successful in establishing a containment line that runs from the 570 down to the 560 on the east side of the wildfire earlier this week. Their hand ignition burn operations were also successful, removing as much fuel as possible in the area.
The complex has 66 wildland firefighters, 26 pieces of heavy equipment and eight helicopters. There is also 25 overhead staff that are part of the incident management team. These personnel consist of heavy equipment coordinators, aircraft supervisors, task force leaders who work with the crews in the field, information officers who share information with the public and other key stakeholders such as industry. It also consists of logistics, facilities and equipment managers who ensure that firefighters are fed, lodged and have hot showers and tools to do their job. A large team like this also requires a finance team to ensure they track costs and payments. The camp is also prepared to receive many more firefighters in the coming weeks and can support up to 153 personnel. There are three other similar camps supporting the two complexes in our forest area.
We are asking the public to use extra caution around wildfire operations and not walk into the burnt areas. There are many hazards that are difficult to see, like deep burning ash pits, unstable trees that can fall because their roots have been burnt away, as well as other unknown dangers. Firefighters are highly trained individuals who wear special gear when working near wildfire. Fallen trees on various roads have been reported. If travelling along these burnt areas, be advised that trees could also fall onto the road, and you may become entrapped.
If you see aircraft in the area, we ask that you move away from the area to allow them space to work. You may be unintentionally impeding their operations, please give our firefighters the room and time they need to complete their tasks.
By: Caroline Charbonneau.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.WWF-023 detected on May 5, is burning out of control at 72,830 ha. Firefighters saw no further growth towards Fox Creek today.
Crews continued working in from the perimeter along the fire guard along the Iosegun Lake road. Along the excursion south of Highway 43 firefighters built more hose line along the wildfire and heavy equipment groups are establishing more fire breaks along that same line.
There are more than 160 firefighters and support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners assisting Alberta on the complex include firefighters from Colorado, New Brunswick and soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment.
Weather conditions kept helicopters on the ground. There are currently 17 helicopters assigned to the Eagle complex including 2 heavy helicopters dedicated to bucketing operations.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Rain fell on both wildfires with areas receiving between 5 and 27 mm and Whitecourt saw steady rain throughout the day.GRIZZLY COMPLEX โ SWF063, SWF064
Slave Lake Forest Area Wildfire Update โ SWF063, SWF064 | May 22, 2023 (2:00 pm)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
SWF-063 is located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie, and sixteen kilometers northwest of Swan Hills, is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 120,670 hectares.
In the northwestern portion of the wildfire, firefighters continued to extinguish hotspots and flare ups with helicopter bucket support in the Banana Belt and East Prairie Metis Settlement areas, and heavy equipment teams continued to create guards around fire excursions. Further southeast, heavy equipment and firefighters continued to build fire guards and reinforce the ignition area yesterday, with some helicopter bucketing support as visibility permitted, this work is planned to continue today.
Fire activity increased on this southeast corner of the fire Sunday afternoon, and firefighters were removed from the area due to safety concerns. 56 firefighters and 4 heavy equipment groups are working on this wildfire. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order. Visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
SWF-064 is located over 40 kilometers northwest of Swan Hills, is classified as out of control and has burned approximately 40,060 hectares. There was insufficient visibility to do an aerial assessment of this fire, but no significant growth was expected. This fire has connected to SWF-063 to the north. 1 heavy equipment group is working on this wildfire.
Image: Alberta Wildfire โ Whitecourt Forest Area, Heavy equipment operators working on a fire guard in the Eagle complex near Fox Creek.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 - Eagle Complex, SWF063, SWF064 - Grizzly Complex
DRONES impede air activity - and if theyโre in the sky, fire crews canโt fly!
Keep your drones grounded during these times when all resources are needed to prevent further loss to our forest areas and keep communities safe. Drones also put air crews at serious risk of injury, and in reality, far worse. Letโs ensure all our crews get home safely to their families.
The use of recreational drones over wildfires in Alberta is dangerous, illegal and could result in a fine of up to $15,000* for putting aircraft and people at risk. Please give Alberta firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely. (*Transport Canada)
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 18,608 ha in size. The fire doubled in size two days but did not increase to the northeast or northwest. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Junction. The fire moved across the Rge Rd 123 and burnt up to the Lobstick River.
Firefighters did not observe very much fire activity on Sunday, thanks to the higher relative humidity, cooler temperatures and a little precipitation. The precipitation received wasnโt significant enough to change the dry conditions but did allow firefighters to continue working on containing the wildfire. The fire had a few flare ups in the interior, but mostly smouldered on the southern edge where the newest activity was happening.
We expect similar conditions Monday, with cool temperatures and more rain.
Firefighters were busy re-establishing new containment lines and building onto existing ones on the southern edge, using heavy equipment and natural breaks like roads and open cut blocks. Once the wildfire is contained, firefighters will begin moving towards the interior of the fire, looking for and extinguishing hotspots.
Helicopters were available today to assist on the fire but none of our aircraft were able to fly again today due to smoky conditions and poor visibility.
Wildfire firefighters continue to work with heavy equipment containing the fire on the western and northwestern side of the fire. A nearly completed containment line made up of dozer guard, natural breaks and hand ignition burning is in place on the east side of East Bank Road.
Firefighters will continue to patrol the boundaries and extinguish hotspots on the edge. Residents will notice hotspots within the interior and this is very common for larger wildfires. They must be confident that the fire is contained and once thatโs established, theyโll start to work from the edges out and work their way in, searching for hotspots by looking and smelling for smoke, and feeling with their bare hands for heat. Once found, they must dig it up with hand tools and put them out with water. This process can take a very long time, simply putting water on a wildfire does not extinguish it as fires can burn deep into the ground and re-surface later when the conditions are favorable to burn.
The northeast of the fire was patrolled again today, and no heat was found along the edges of the wildfire. Firefighters were successful in establishing a containment line that runs from the 570 down to the 560 on the east side of the wildfire earlier this week. Their hand ignition burn operations were also successful, removing as much fuel as possible in the area.
We are asking the public to use extra caution around wildfire operations and not walk into the burnt areas. There are many hazards that are difficult to see, like deep burning ash pits, unstable trees that can fall because their roots have been burnt away, as well as other unknown dangers. Firefighters are highly trained individuals who wear special gear when working near wildfire. Fallen trees on various roads have been reported.
If you see aircraft in the area, we ask that you move away from the area to allow them space to work. You may be unintentionally impeding their operations, please give our firefighters the room and time they need to complete their tasks.
By: Caroline Charbonneau.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
WWF-023 detected on May 5, is burning out of control at 72,830 ha. Firefighters saw no further growth towards Fox Creek today.
Crews continue to make good progression with hose lines working east from Fox Creek along the perimeter and north from losegun Lake south to Fox Creek as well as cat guard to the west of Fox Creek.
The warm temperatures coupled with winds clearing of smoke over the fire resulted in pockets of active fire behaviour popping up along the north edge of the excursion that crossed Highway 43 north of Fox Creek. Heavy helicopters were able to target these active areas and firefighters followed up to ensure any growth was kept to a minimum.
Crews in the Iosegun Lake area patrolled the established fire guard attacking hotspots while firefighters working west of Highway 43 moved in from the north and south ends making good progress with pumps and hose. That work south if Highway 43 is scheduled to be reinforced by heavy equipment operators who will be building dozer guards around the wildfire in that area.
Alberta has 40 firefighters and support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners from other jurisdictions include Helitack crew members from Oregon, 20 Colorado-based firefighters, soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, and a 19 member unit crew from New Brunswick.
There are currently 17 helicopters assigned to the Eagle complex including 2 heavy helicopters dedicated to bucketing operations.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Meteorologists with Alberta Wildfire indicate there is strong possibility of significant precipitation and cooler temperatures are coming to the region over the coming days. The forecasted conditions will help to decrease fire danger levels and allow firefighters to further expand on gains already made in containing wildfires in the area.
A surface front through BC and Alberta will produce widespread showers and risk of thunder showers from the southwestern boreal to the southern eastern slopes. Winds will be E-NW 10-15 km/h with gusts to 40 km/h.
GRIZZLY COMPLEX โ SWF063, SWF064
Slave Lake Forest Area Wildfire Update โ SWF063, SWF064 | May 21, 2023 (10:00 am)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
SWF-063 located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie and approximately 16 kilometres northwest of Swan Hills is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 92,742 hectares.
Firefighters continue to work in the northern end of the wildfire extinguishing hotspots. Heavy equipment continues to build fire guard around the fire excursion in the East Prairie Metis Settlement and firefighters are working to extinguish hotspots along the edge of fire guards.
In the south end of the wildfire, heavy equipment is building a fire guard and firefighters are working on extinguishing hotspots along the guard. There are 56 firefighters and four heavy equipment groups working on this wildfire. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order. Visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
SWF-064 located over 40 kilometers northwest of Swan Hills is classified as out of control and has burned approximately 22,220 hectares.
No significant growth was observed on the wildfire over the past days. The fire guard on the northeast and northwest side of the wildfire is holding. Heavy equipment continues to work on this wildfire.
Image: Alberta Wildfire โ Whitecourt Forest Area, Soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment dig out hot spots along the fire guard at Iosegun Lake west of Fox Creek.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 (Eagle Complex)
Image: Alberta Wildfire โ Whitecourt Forest Area, Firefighters continue to monitor the fireguard near Iosegun Lake extinguishing hot spots and securing the perimeter to limit the chance of any further growth towards the community of Fox Creek.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
There was significant growth to EWF035 - Shining Bank Fire yesterday to the southeast then south in Yellowhead County. There was no growth to the northeast or northwest and no impact to Woodlands County. The County remains in contact with Alberta Wildfire and Yellowhead County to get the latest information on EWF035. Woodlands County is fortunate to have their support during these exceptional times.
Woodlands Countyโs evacuation ALERT remains in place for a southern portion of the municipality. https://bit.ly/4237OnS
Yellowhead County has expanded their evacuation ORDER. https://bit.ly/3MqlTpy
Yellowhead County also has issued an evacuation ALERT for areas south of Shining Bank Fire, north of Hwy 16. https://bit.ly/3OAS0oW
Are you prepared for an emergency?
Do you have an Emergency Kit packed? https://www.alberta.ca/build-an-emergency-kit.aspx
A plan in case of an evacuation? https://www.alberta.ca/prepare-to-evacuate.aspx
What about your livestock? https://www.alberta.ca/farm-animals-and-livestock...
Drive with extreme caution as smoke continues to affect roadway visibility and driving conditions. Visit https://511.alberta.ca/ before you head out for the latest road information and plan your safe route to your destination.
FYI - Woodlands County intends to move its Daily Updates to a morning rhythm. Significant changes will ALWAYS be communicated as they happen.
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - EWF035 Deep Creek Complex | May 20, 2023
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
DEEP CREEK WILDFIRE COMPLEX โ EWF035
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 18,608 ha in size. The fire doubled in size yesterday, but did not increase to the northeast or northwest. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, estimated to have burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Juntion. The fire remains east of Shining Bank Lake, the fire was spotting over the McLeod River the past two days but landowners were putting out hotspots.
There was significant growth yesterday. The fire burnt towards the southeast and then towards the south later in the day. The fire moved extremely fast. Today, we expect southeast winds, potentially spreading the fire towards the northwest, back into spruce stands in the southwest section of the fire. As of noon today, a thick blanket of smoke covers the area which is a benefit for fire activity. Smoke shades the fire from the sun, decreasing temperatures and the fire doesn't have the wind to push the fire through the fuels.
Temperatures today will be similar as yesterday ranging in the mid to high 20s with relative humidity near 25%. These crossover conditions mean that we could experience similar fire behaviour. A new boundary map has been generated and be available later (you can see the new boundary on the AB Status app map).
Sunday, we expect slightly lower temperatures and higher humidity with winds from the north-northeast. Some rain is forecasted for the next two days, however the little precipitation will not be significant enough to improve these hot and dry conditions.
SOUTHEAST OF EWF035
Yesterday, the fire intensity was increasing quickly near 11:00 a.m. and progressed to extreme fire behaviour by noon. The fire spread quickly to the south-southeast through spruce stands and as of 5:00 p.m. the fire moved directly towards the south.
Medium helicopters were bucketing around structures where conditions permitted but had to move away from the wildfire as winds and smoke made it difficult to bucket safely and effectively. Heavy helicopters were also present yesterday, bucketing on structures and around homes, attempting to cool the conditions near the community. The heavy (large) helicopters are available today to assist on the fire but will need to wait until the visibility improves for them to take off.
Seven pieces of heavy equipment were attempting to build a containment line starting from Twp 560 and move towards the south on the northeast side of the wildfire when they encountered a wall of flame that forced them to retreat to safety towards the south. The safety of our firefighters and operators are our first priority. Today, they've been re-positioned and tasked with new line while the fire activity is favorable for them to work near.
On Thursday, airtankers had built a containment line with retardant on the southwest side of the fire. The fire burnt over it very quickly yesterday. Under these extreme fire behaviour conditions, helicopter water buckets, water skimmers and airtankers with retardant are often not effective due to the heat. Firefighters reported seeing 150 ft high flames from the trees and estimate that the fire moved approximately 60 meters per minute. They are effective under certain conditions and not always the best tool for the job. The fire also can spot ahead of itself and over containment lines of any type, especially under these rates of spread. Firefighters could see spotting from the wildfire up to 500 meters ahead of itself, making these conditions very challenging for firefighters.
NORTHWEST OF EWF035
Dozer operators and land owners were assisting with a dozer line to help contain the fire from the 560 moving south along East Bank Road, on the east side of the road. Although we appreciate the help from the public where possible, this is a special situation where the land owners are able to work closely with industry in ensuring the safety of the pipelines and the operators.
Today, firefighters continued to reinforce the containment line they've built with hand ignition burning operation from East Bank Road and moved into the interior of the fire. This burn will add protection to nearby properties, removing available fuel for the fire later on, if the winds change direction. The operation is successful, the winds were in favor for firefighters yesterday and continue to be for them today. The fire did spot across the river into agricultural land in a few places and fortunately the landowner was able to put out the hotspots on their land. Firefighters are also patrolling along the East Bank Road extinguishing hotspots on the west side of the road.
NORTHEAST OF EWF035
Firefighters successfully established a containment line that runs from the 570 down to the 560 on the east side of the wildfire. They nearly completed the hand ignition burn operation, removing as much fuel as possible in the area. Firefighters had to cease their operations as relative humidity and the vegetation was too wet to burn.
We are asking the public to use extra caution around wildfire operations and not walk into the burnt areas. There are unseen hazards, like deep burning ash pits, falling trees because their roots have been burnt away and aren't stable as well as other unknown dangers. Firefighters are highly trained individuals who wear special gear when working near wildfire. We understand that these are stressful times and we assure you we are doing what we can to chase this evermoving wildfire shifting from one side to another on a daily basis.
If you see aircraft in the area, we ask that you move away from the area. They cannot do their job effectively. You may be unintentionally impeding our operations, please give our firefighters the room and time they need to complete their tasks.
By: Caroline Charbonneau.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
Eagle Complex (WWF023)
WWF023 detected on May 5, is burning out of control estimated at 66,645 ha. Containment lines north of the Town of Fox Creek continue to hold.
The Ontario Incident Management Team completed its first full day on the Eagle Complex. Today they are focusing on ensuring the wildfire does not cross the dozer guard in place from Iosegon Lake to Fox Creek, gathering updated information on the fire perimeters weather permitting, and starting work on building a guard around the area where the wildfire crossed Highway 43 north of Fox Creek.
Alberta has 40 firefighters ands support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners from other jurisdictions include Helitack crew members from Oregon, along with 20 other United States-based firefighters, soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, and a 19 member unit crew from New Brunswick.
Equipment includes 1 light, 6 intermediate, 5 medium and 2 heavy helicopters; the heavy helicopters are dedicated to bucketing operations. dedicated to bucketing operations. 4 intermediate helicopters with 1 assessor, 3 medium and 2 heavy helicopters were focused on bucketing operations. Heavy equipment operators continued their efforts.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Crews will continue searching for hotspots on an ongoing basis.
Wildfires burn very hot and will burn into the ground. The situation remains ever-changing and conditions on the fire line will continue to vary due to forecasted weather. Containment lines to the north and west of town continue to hold up to to prevent the wildfire from spreading further into the community of Fox Creek.
The fire is burning on the ground surface of the ground but also climbing into the trees and creating a crown fire. Grasses and other fuels remain dry. Smoky conditions are anticipated to continue. Today, NW winds are expected for most of the day. the winds are projected to blow from a NW direction.
Grizzly Complex โ SWF063, SWF064
SWF-063 located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie and approximately 16 kilometres northwest of Swan Hills is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 92,742 hectares.
Firefighters continue to work in the northern end of the wildfire extinguishing hotspots. Heavy equipment continues to build fire guard around the fire excursion in the East Prairie Metis Settlement and firefighters are working to extinguish hotspots along the edge of fire guards. In the south end of the wildfire, heavy equipment is building a fire guard and firefighters are working on extinguishing hotspots on along the guard.
There are 56 firefighters and four heavy equipment groups working on this wildfire. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order. Visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
SWF-064 located over 40 kilometers northwest of Swan Hills is classified as out of control and has burned approximately 22,220 hectares. No significant growth was observed on the wildfire over the past days. The fire guard on the northeast and northwest side of the wildfire is holding. Heavy equipment continues to work on this wildfire.
Daily Update: EWF035 (Shining Bank Fire)
Daily Update: EWF035 (Shining Bank Fire), WWF023 (Eagle Fire), SWF063 (Grizzly Complex)
Image: Alberta Wildfire - Edson Area: The fire is skipping and jumping to different forest stands, not burning continuously through the forest. EWF035 along Rg Rd 131 (May 18, 2023) UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Daily Update: EWF035 - Shining Bank Fire
There has been growth on the Shining Bank Fire, predominantly on the south flank in Yellowhead County, south of Township Road 560, where the fire crossed the perimeter. Information about growth and operations is provided below in Edson Forest Area Update.
Woodlands County's Evacuation ALERT will remain in place for the southern portion of the municipality until the situation changes. https://bit.ly/3MudORO
Yellowhead County's Evacuation ORDER for their area remains in place. https://bit.ly/3o1bvwh
As incident command shifts to relieve crews and wildfire activity constantly changes, Woodlands County continues receiving its information from Alberta Wildfire. Best efforts to share this information as it happens is a priority. In between municipal updates, public updates can be viewed by visiting:
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
Wildfire activity in neighbouring Yellowhead County, Town of Fox Creek & Greenview County, Swan Hills & Big Lakes County is shuffling Albertans into our communities. We welcome our visiting evacuees and ask that we continue to support each other through these uncertain times.
Tune into their local messaging for changing information and details.
https://www.facebook.com/TownofWhitecourt
https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty
https://www.facebook.com/townoffoxcreek
https://www.facebook.com/MDofGreenview
https://www.facebook.com/TownofSwanHills
https://www.facebook.com/biglakescounty
SMOKE from wildfires around the province continues to trigger a Special Air Quality alert, is reducing visibility and causing delays in areas.
Before you travel, check https://511.alberta.ca/ for roadway information.
You can view smoke forecasts by visiting: https://firesmoke.ca/forecasts/current/
Alberta Emergency Alert is your resource for critical and advisory information regarding evacuation alerts and orders. These alerts are updated every 24 hours until information changes for that area.
Download the app and change your settings to receive advisories for specific areas.
https://www.alberta.ca/about-emergency-alerts.aspx
FIRE BANS remain in place. The Forest Protection Areas across Alberta are under strict fire bans to help prevent further wildfires in these high risk continues. View approved and prohibited activities by visiting https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,951 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north and a small southern section of Township Road 560, and east of Shining Bank Lake
There was new growth on the south perimeter of the fire yesterday and again today. The fire burnt down towards the south nearly against Twp road 560. Firefighters will attempt to bring the burn up to the road this evening with assistance from Yellowhead County firefighters. This will help remove the available fuel that the fire could consume later on, when firefighters aren't present to control the burn. It will also allow for better clean up, allowing the fire crews to search for and extinguish the hotspots along the road and work their way north into the burnt areas using water pumps and hose.
The fire did get across Twp Rd 560 and burn into a few stands of trees. The fire is burning easily through conifer (spruce) stands but slows down when it reaches deciduous (poplar/aspen) stands. The fire is approximately half a km wide and half a km long past 560 but burnt a bit more towards the south-southeast today. Heavy equipment was busy putting in containment line ahead of the fire to the south. Equipment operators were able to put approximately one km of line to the west and plan to continue tomorrow. The equipment operators on the east side had to retreat due to intense fire behaviour but the area will be re-assed and containment lines re-established.
Firefighters and heavy equipment operators successfully completed a large priority containment line yesterday which is approximately four dozer blades wide from Twp Rd 570 pointing directly south and tying into Twp Rd 560 (west of Rg Rd 123). This will help contain the fire from moving towards the east, into agricultural land.
Wildland firefighters expect some growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 again tomorrow until the winds change direction.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on priority areas.
Yellowhead County has reported that structural protection crews have been initiating their system over the last several days and are now prepared to action approximately 100 homes. Special flagging of different colours marked โSPUโ are set up on these properties to help firefighters identify operations for that property. This is to identify the placement of pumps and structural protection sprinklers. Please do not remove the flagging. Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
The Deep Creek Complex has a total of 44 firefighters plus 19 incident management firefighters working with 27 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters are assisting the wildfire with aerial assessments and performing bucket operations on the complex.
Today the temperatures stayed between the low to mid 20s with slightly higher relative humidity. This kept the fire behaviour less active then yesterday.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Below the Shining Bank Fire update, and information about WWF029 (north of Athabasca River)
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for Alberta due to wildfire smoke causing poor air quality and reduced visibility.
Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyoneโs health even at low concentrations. Take actions to protect your health and reduce exposure to smoke.
My Health Alberta: https://bit.ly/2xdxh4v
Health Canada: https://bit.ly/3MwI0f3
Woodlands County is aware of the Alberta Emergency Alert (AEA) Evacuation ORDER issued by Yellowhead County.
View the AEA Order: https://bit.ly/432CExK
Wildfire crews will work to extinguish hotspots on the northern boundary of EWF035/Shining Bank Fire tomorrow as they flare-up and create smoke. The fire has not jumped the perimeter. Alberta Wildfire anticipates winds from the north-northwest in the morning, then shift and come from the northeast around noon. Winds are then expected to switch and come from the southeast on Thursday.
Woodlands County has ground crews on scene connecting in-person with residents. The Woodlands County AEA Evacuation ALERT remains in place.
View the AEA Advisory here: https://bit.ly/42IFE2j
The importance of preparedness and being informed is key in these situations.
Emergency Planning: https://www.alberta.ca/make-an-emergency-plan.aspx
Alberta Wildfire Status: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Alberta Emergency Alert: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 16, 2023 (4:00 pm)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,951 ha in size. There was recorded growth to the south of the fire yesterday and a new perimeter was produced. Firefighters have seen additional growth up to Twp Rd 560 and has crossed the road into a stand of conifer trees. A new perimeter will be assessed at a later day. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and a small southern section of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake. Wildland firefighters expect growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 potentially overnight and through the day tomorrow.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Today, groups of heavy equipment finished a priority containment line on the south of the southeast side of the fire, the line is running north-south to prevent the fire from moving towards farmland to the east. The U.S. crews were working on the north side of the fire. The crews continue to search for and extinguish hotspots using water pumps and hose and will continue tomorrow.
Wildland firefighters expect growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 potentially overnight and through the day tomorrow.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Yellowhead County put an evacuation order in place for residences South of EWF-035 May 15 at 20:00 yesterday in anticipation of fire spread to the South.
Yellowhead County has reported that structural protection crews have been initiating their system over the last several days and are now prepared to action approximately 100 homes. Special flagging of different colours marked โSPUโ are set up on these properties to help firefighters identify operations for that property. This is to identify the placement of pumps and structural protection sprinklers. Please do not remove the flagging.
Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
The Deep Creek Complex has a total of 44 firefighters plus 19 incident management firefighters working with 27 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters are assisting the wildfire with assessments and performing bucket operations on the complex.
Today the temperatures remained in the mid to high 20's with winds out of the north-northwest at 15-20 km/h gusting to 25 km/h which will push the fires towards the south. The winds will continue from the northwest then shift and come from the northeast sometime around noon. Winds are expected to switch from the southeast again Thursday.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
WWF029, north of the Athabasca River, Blue Ridge, was detected May 15 afternoon and is classified being held at approximately 0.26 ha. Alberta Wildfire has two ground crews and two helicopter crews on site.
Heli carrying water - May 16 2023
May 15, 2023 - 9:45 am
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Below the Shining Bank Fire update, is information about WWF029 (north of Athabasca River)
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Woodlands County is aware of the Alberta Emergency Alert (AEA) Evacuation ORDER issued by Yellowhead County.
View the AEA Order: https://bit.ly/3o1bvwh
Alberta Wildfire confirms that there is no anticipated growth north/northeast of EWF035/ Shining Bank Fire. The fire has not jumped the perimeter.
As reported earlier today, Alberta Wildfire anticipated โโฆwinds shifting from the northwest 20-25 km/h gusting up to 50 km/h later this afternoon.โ
Woodlands County has ground crews on scene connecting in-person with residents.
The Woodlands County AEA Evacuation ALERT remains in place.
View the AEA Advisory here: https://bit.ly/3MudORO
The importance of preparedness and being informed is key in these situations.
Emergency Planning: https://www.alberta.ca/make-an-emergency-plan.aspx
Alberta Wildfire Status: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Alberta Emergency Alert: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 15, 2023 (9:30 p.m.)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow, groups of heavy equipment will continue working along the southeast side of the perimeter to create a fire break. Crews and helicopters will work to extinguish larger hotspots on the north boundary line tomorrow as they flare-up and create smoke.
Wildland firefighters expect growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 potentially overnight and through the day tomorrow.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Yellowhead County has reported that structural protection crews have been initiating their system over the last several days and are now prepared to action approximately 100 homes. Special flagging of different colours marked โSPUโ are set up on these properties to help firefighters identify operations for that property. This is to identify the placement of pumps and structural protection sprinklers. Please do not remove the flagging.
Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
The Deep Creek Complex has a total of 66 firefighters are working alongside 30 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters are assisting the wildfire with assessments and performing bucket operations on the complex.
Today the temperatures remained in the high 20's with winds out of the southeast at 15-20 km/h gusting to 25 km/h. Tonight, we anticipate a cold front which will bring northern winds and possibly push the wildfire towards the south. These winds will be 20-25 km/h gusting up to 50 km/h later tomorrow afternoon.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
WWF029, north of the Athabasca River, Blue Ridge, was detected this afternoon and is classified being held at approximately 0.26 ha. Alberta Wildfire has two ground crews and two helicopter crews on site.
EWF035 - May 15 2023
May 14, 2023 - 9:45 am
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Our neighbours in Yellowhead County issued an AEA Evacuation ALERT for areas east of Shining Bank Lake.
https://bit.ly/3MrGfju
EWF035 is an active incident, and the weather increases wildfire risk and activity.
Have you addressed preparedness? If not, now is the time to stay ahead of any changing situations.
https://www.alberta.ca/prepare-to-evacuate.aspx
Farm animals and livestock? Plan for that too.
https://www.alberta.ca/farm-animals-and-livestock-preparedness.aspx
Stay alert, informed, and prepared.
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow groups of heavy equipment will continue working along the southeast side of the perimeter to create a fire break. Crews and helicopters will work to extinguish larger hotspots on the north boundary line tomorrow afternoon as they flare-up and create smoke.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Structure Protection crews from Yellowhead County has expanded their structure protection to more residents in the area, Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF-035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
52 firefighters are working alongside 25 pieces of heavy equipment on the Deep Creek Complex. Additionally, eight helicopters performed bucketing operations on the wildfires near affected communities.
Today's weather will remain in the high 20's with winds out of the southeast at 15-20 km/h gusting to 25 km/h.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer at 780-740-1341.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
The anticipated weather arrived. High temps, decreasing humidity, and increased winds helped create the recipe flare-ups today.
BE PREPARED. BE PREPARED. BE PREPARED.
Make a family plan. Pack an emergency kit. Know where you will go.
https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx
The Evacuation ALERT for Woodlands County's southern portion remains in effect.
If an evacuation order occurs, it is pushed through Alberta Emergency Alert and broadcast by phone, radio, and TV.Advisories do not take over your phone, so download AEA app, and adjust your setting to receive those notifications. https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
REPORT any suspected wildfire to 310-FIRE.
Albertans who require assistance can call 310-4455 for wildfire-related information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
FIRE BANS remain in place. Be smart. Be patient. The threat is real.
https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow groups of heavy equipment are going to be working on the southeast side of the perimeter to create a fire break. Airtankers did drop retardant on the northeast side of the wildfire to eliminate spread. Helicopters will drop water to extinguish larger hotspots on the south boundary line tomorrow. Resources are allocated to this fire and will work to extinguish hotspots as they continue to flare-up. Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Structure Protection crews from Yellowhead County, Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF-035. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
52 firefighters are working alongside 25 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters performed bucketing operations on the wildfires near affected communities.
Tomorrow weather will remain in the high 20's and winds will increase out of the south-southeast at 15-20 km/h with gusts of 35 km/h.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer at 780-653-0153 and press 2 for information.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Be Prepared. Be Prepared. Be Prepared.
https://woodlands.ab.ca/p/emergency-preparedness
Today, Woodlands County issued an evacuation ALERT for a southern portion of the municipality (map in comments).
Incoming high temperatures and low humidity increase wildfire risk. Wildfires, even with some precipitation, burn deep into the ground and dry conditions are a recipe for flare ups. While crews at Alberta Wildfire continue to monitor and suppress, planning and preparedness remain our greatest tools.
Didn't receive today's alert? Download the Alberta Emergency Alert app, and adjust your settings to include ADVISORY alerts. Only CRITICAL alerts will take over phone, radio, and TV. https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Remain informed of the facts.
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
https://woodlands.ab.ca/
https://511.alberta.ca/
Fire ban is still in place. No recreation OHV or outdoor wood burning fires.
Be smart. Be patient. https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
Report any suspected wildfire, 310-FIRE.
Today's Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update:
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow groups of heavy equipment are going to be working on the south end of the perimeter to create a fire break. Airtankers will drop retardant lines to provide more containment for the wildfire on the northeast side of the wildfire. We have helicopters dropping water on larger hotspots on the south boundary line. These perimeter lines will help build-up containment levels on the north and south side of the wildfire as this is a priority area. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
Structure Protection crews from Yellowhead County, Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF-035.
To stay alert for any evacuation information please visit Alberta Emergency Alerts.
51 firefighters are working alongside 24 pieces of heavy equipment on the Deep
Creek Complex. Additionally, nine helicopters performed bucketing operations on the wildfires near affected communities.
Tomorrow weather will remain in the high 20's and winds to increase out of the south-southeast at 15-20 km/h with gusts of 35 km/h.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer at 780-653-0153 and press 2 for information.
WOODLANDS COUNTY ISSUES AN ALBERTA EMERGENCY ALERT
Woodlands County has issued an Alberta Emergency Alert for a southern portion of Woodlands County. There is a wildfire south of Township Road 570, west of RR 123, north of Twp Rd 560 and east of Shining Bank.
The alert is in effect for everyone in the area:
- North of Township Road 561, west of Range Road 120
- South of Groat Creek Road, Twp Rd 584
- West of the McLeod River to RR 144
- East of the McLeod River to RR 123 at Whitecourt Mountain
No evacuation is required currently. With worsening weather conditions, this fire could force evacuation of the affected area. An updated alert will be issued if an evacuation is required.
Everyone in the affected area must prepare for a possible evacuation. Gather pets, important documents, medication and enough food, water, and supplies for at least 3 days. Learn more about emergency preparedness at http://alberta.ca/BePrepared.
Stay tuned to www.alberta.ca/emergencyalert, local media and Woodlands County website for updates.
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
May 10, 2023
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
May 9, 2023
WILDFIRE SUPPRESION ACTIVITIES EWF035
May 6, 2023
UPDATE Wildfire: Yellowhead County - Edson Forest Area (Near Woodlands County)
Message from Alberta Wildfire: Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 6, 2023 (12:00 p.m.)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km southeast of Shining Bank.
This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 4,376 ha in size.
This wildfire has crossed highway 32 and is being continually assessed by Alberta Wildfire.
Status Updates: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Alberta Wildfire Information Line: 1-866-394-3473 (FYI-FIRE)
May 5, 2023
Wildfire - Yellowhead County (Near Woodlands County, RR 124 & Twp 555)
Alberta Wildfire has advised a fire is near Woodlands County.
The ~2 hectare fire is in Yellowhead County, south of Whitecourt, near RR 124 & Twp 555.
Weather conditions are pushing the fire west, away from Woodlands County.
Woodlands County Fire Department is in the Anselmo area, notifying home owners. No evacuation orders are in place.
Continue to follow Alberta Wildfire for accurate and up to date information. Woodlands County will provide their messages and updates when they come available.
Sign up for Woodlands County alerts, directly to your phone or email at https://barcc.ca/m/sign-up
Alberta Wildfire Status: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Woodlands County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/woodlandscounty
Woodlands County Website https://woodlands.ab.ca/
May 23
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 - Eagle Complex, SWF063, SWF064 - Grizzly Complex
FIRE BANS remain in place. The Forest Protection Areas across Alberta are under strict fire bans to help prevent further wildfires in these high risk continues. View approved and prohibited activities by visiting https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 20,996 ha in size. The fire boundary was re-assessed with a helicopter and the size was changed to reflect the new boundary. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Junction. The fire moved across the Rge Rd 123 and burnt up to the Lobstick River.
Firefighters did not observe very much fire activity again today, thanks to the higher relative humidity, cooler temperatures and more precipitation. The precipitation received wasnโt significant enough to change the dry conditions but did allow firefighters to continue working on containing the wildfire. The fire had a few flare ups in the interior, but mostly smouldered on the southern edge where the newest activity was happening.
We expect similar conditions tomorrow, with cool temperatures and much more rain.
Firefighters continued to establishing new containment lines and building onto existing ones on the southern boundary of the fire. A guard was completed from East Bank Road to Rge Rd 130. Helicopters assisted firefighters on the southwest side, bucketing hotspots. They also worked on hot areas near the south-southeast and plan to return tomorrow.
Helicopters were available to assist on the fire and our aircraft were able to fly.
Wildfire firefighters continue to work with heavy equipment containing the fire on the western and northwestern side of the fire. A completed containment line made up of dozer guard, natural breaks and hand ignition burning is in place on the east side of East Bank Road.
Firefighters will continue to patrol the boundaries and extinguish hotspots on the edge. Residents will notice hotspots within the interior, and this is very common for larger wildfires. Fire specialists must be confident that the fire is contained and once thatโs established, theyโll start to work from the edges out and work their way in, searching for hotspots by looking and smelling for smoke, and feeling with their bare hands for heat. Once found, they must dig it up with hand tools and put them out with water. This process can take a very long time, simply putting water on a wildfire does not extinguish it as fires can burn deep into the ground and re-surface later when the conditions are favorable to burn.
The northeast of the fire was patrolled again, and no heat was found along the edges of the wildfire. Firefighters were successful in establishing a containment line that runs from the 570 down to the 560 on the east side of the wildfire earlier this week. Their hand ignition burn operations were also successful, removing as much fuel as possible in the area.
The complex has 66 wildland firefighters, 26 pieces of heavy equipment and eight helicopters. There is also 25 overhead staff that are part of the incident management team. These personnel consist of heavy equipment coordinators, aircraft supervisors, task force leaders who work with the crews in the field, information officers who share information with the public and other key stakeholders such as industry. It also consists of logistics, facilities and equipment managers who ensure that firefighters are fed, lodged and have hot showers and tools to do their job. A large team like this also requires a finance team to ensure they track costs and payments. The camp is also prepared to receive many more firefighters in the coming weeks and can support up to 153 personnel. There are three other similar camps supporting the two complexes in our forest area.
We are asking the public to use extra caution around wildfire operations and not walk into the burnt areas. There are many hazards that are difficult to see, like deep burning ash pits, unstable trees that can fall because their roots have been burnt away, as well as other unknown dangers. Firefighters are highly trained individuals who wear special gear when working near wildfire. Fallen trees on various roads have been reported. If travelling along these burnt areas, be advised that trees could also fall onto the road, and you may become entrapped.
If you see aircraft in the area, we ask that you move away from the area to allow them space to work. You may be unintentionally impeding their operations, please give our firefighters the room and time they need to complete their tasks.
By: Caroline Charbonneau.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.WWF-023 detected on May 5, is burning out of control at 72,830 ha. Firefighters saw no further growth towards Fox Creek today.
Crews continued working in from the perimeter along the fire guard along the Iosegun Lake road. Along the excursion south of Highway 43 firefighters built more hose line along the wildfire and heavy equipment groups are establishing more fire breaks along that same line.
There are more than 160 firefighters and support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners assisting Alberta on the complex include firefighters from Colorado, New Brunswick and soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment.
Weather conditions kept helicopters on the ground. There are currently 17 helicopters assigned to the Eagle complex including 2 heavy helicopters dedicated to bucketing operations.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Rain fell on both wildfires with areas receiving between 5 and 27 mm and Whitecourt saw steady rain throughout the day.GRIZZLY COMPLEX โ SWF063, SWF064
Slave Lake Forest Area Wildfire Update โ SWF063, SWF064 | May 22, 2023 (2:00 pm)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
SWF-063 is located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie, and sixteen kilometers northwest of Swan Hills, is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 120,670 hectares.
In the northwestern portion of the wildfire, firefighters continued to extinguish hotspots and flare ups with helicopter bucket support in the Banana Belt and East Prairie Metis Settlement areas, and heavy equipment teams continued to create guards around fire excursions. Further southeast, heavy equipment and firefighters continued to build fire guards and reinforce the ignition area yesterday, with some helicopter bucketing support as visibility permitted, this work is planned to continue today.
Fire activity increased on this southeast corner of the fire Sunday afternoon, and firefighters were removed from the area due to safety concerns. 56 firefighters and 4 heavy equipment groups are working on this wildfire. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order. Visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
SWF-064 is located over 40 kilometers northwest of Swan Hills, is classified as out of control and has burned approximately 40,060 hectares. There was insufficient visibility to do an aerial assessment of this fire, but no significant growth was expected. This fire has connected to SWF-063 to the north. 1 heavy equipment group is working on this wildfire.
Image: Alberta Wildfire โ Whitecourt Forest Area, Heavy equipment operators working on a fire guard in the Eagle complex near Fox Creek.
May 22
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 - Eagle Complex, SWF063, SWF064 - Grizzly Complex
DRONES impede air activity - and if theyโre in the sky, fire crews canโt fly!
Keep your drones grounded during these times when all resources are needed to prevent further loss to our forest areas and keep communities safe. Drones also put air crews at serious risk of injury, and in reality, far worse. Letโs ensure all our crews get home safely to their families.
The use of recreational drones over wildfires in Alberta is dangerous, illegal and could result in a fine of up to $15,000* for putting aircraft and people at risk. Please give Alberta firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely. (*Transport Canada)
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 18,608 ha in size. The fire doubled in size two days but did not increase to the northeast or northwest. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Junction. The fire moved across the Rge Rd 123 and burnt up to the Lobstick River.
Firefighters did not observe very much fire activity on Sunday, thanks to the higher relative humidity, cooler temperatures and a little precipitation. The precipitation received wasnโt significant enough to change the dry conditions but did allow firefighters to continue working on containing the wildfire. The fire had a few flare ups in the interior, but mostly smouldered on the southern edge where the newest activity was happening.
We expect similar conditions Monday, with cool temperatures and more rain.
Firefighters were busy re-establishing new containment lines and building onto existing ones on the southern edge, using heavy equipment and natural breaks like roads and open cut blocks. Once the wildfire is contained, firefighters will begin moving towards the interior of the fire, looking for and extinguishing hotspots.
Helicopters were available today to assist on the fire but none of our aircraft were able to fly again today due to smoky conditions and poor visibility.
Wildfire firefighters continue to work with heavy equipment containing the fire on the western and northwestern side of the fire. A nearly completed containment line made up of dozer guard, natural breaks and hand ignition burning is in place on the east side of East Bank Road.
Firefighters will continue to patrol the boundaries and extinguish hotspots on the edge. Residents will notice hotspots within the interior and this is very common for larger wildfires. They must be confident that the fire is contained and once thatโs established, theyโll start to work from the edges out and work their way in, searching for hotspots by looking and smelling for smoke, and feeling with their bare hands for heat. Once found, they must dig it up with hand tools and put them out with water. This process can take a very long time, simply putting water on a wildfire does not extinguish it as fires can burn deep into the ground and re-surface later when the conditions are favorable to burn.
The northeast of the fire was patrolled again today, and no heat was found along the edges of the wildfire. Firefighters were successful in establishing a containment line that runs from the 570 down to the 560 on the east side of the wildfire earlier this week. Their hand ignition burn operations were also successful, removing as much fuel as possible in the area.
We are asking the public to use extra caution around wildfire operations and not walk into the burnt areas. There are many hazards that are difficult to see, like deep burning ash pits, unstable trees that can fall because their roots have been burnt away, as well as other unknown dangers. Firefighters are highly trained individuals who wear special gear when working near wildfire. Fallen trees on various roads have been reported.
If you see aircraft in the area, we ask that you move away from the area to allow them space to work. You may be unintentionally impeding their operations, please give our firefighters the room and time they need to complete their tasks.
By: Caroline Charbonneau.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
WWF-023 detected on May 5, is burning out of control at 72,830 ha. Firefighters saw no further growth towards Fox Creek today.
Crews continue to make good progression with hose lines working east from Fox Creek along the perimeter and north from losegun Lake south to Fox Creek as well as cat guard to the west of Fox Creek.
The warm temperatures coupled with winds clearing of smoke over the fire resulted in pockets of active fire behaviour popping up along the north edge of the excursion that crossed Highway 43 north of Fox Creek. Heavy helicopters were able to target these active areas and firefighters followed up to ensure any growth was kept to a minimum.
Crews in the Iosegun Lake area patrolled the established fire guard attacking hotspots while firefighters working west of Highway 43 moved in from the north and south ends making good progress with pumps and hose. That work south if Highway 43 is scheduled to be reinforced by heavy equipment operators who will be building dozer guards around the wildfire in that area.
Alberta has 40 firefighters and support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners from other jurisdictions include Helitack crew members from Oregon, 20 Colorado-based firefighters, soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, and a 19 member unit crew from New Brunswick.
There are currently 17 helicopters assigned to the Eagle complex including 2 heavy helicopters dedicated to bucketing operations.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Meteorologists with Alberta Wildfire indicate there is strong possibility of significant precipitation and cooler temperatures are coming to the region over the coming days. The forecasted conditions will help to decrease fire danger levels and allow firefighters to further expand on gains already made in containing wildfires in the area.
A surface front through BC and Alberta will produce widespread showers and risk of thunder showers from the southwestern boreal to the southern eastern slopes. Winds will be E-NW 10-15 km/h with gusts to 40 km/h.
GRIZZLY COMPLEX โ SWF063, SWF064
Slave Lake Forest Area Wildfire Update โ SWF063, SWF064 | May 21, 2023 (10:00 am)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
SWF-063 located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie and approximately 16 kilometres northwest of Swan Hills is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 92,742 hectares.
Firefighters continue to work in the northern end of the wildfire extinguishing hotspots. Heavy equipment continues to build fire guard around the fire excursion in the East Prairie Metis Settlement and firefighters are working to extinguish hotspots along the edge of fire guards.
In the south end of the wildfire, heavy equipment is building a fire guard and firefighters are working on extinguishing hotspots along the guard. There are 56 firefighters and four heavy equipment groups working on this wildfire. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order. Visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
SWF-064 located over 40 kilometers northwest of Swan Hills is classified as out of control and has burned approximately 22,220 hectares.
No significant growth was observed on the wildfire over the past days. The fire guard on the northeast and northwest side of the wildfire is holding. Heavy equipment continues to work on this wildfire.
Image: Alberta Wildfire โ Whitecourt Forest Area, Soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment dig out hot spots along the fire guard at Iosegun Lake west of Fox Creek.
May 21
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE, WWF023 (Eagle Complex)
DEEP CREEK WILDFIRE COMPLEX โ EWF035
Image: Alberta Wildfire โ Whitecourt Forest Area, Firefighters continue to monitor the fireguard near Iosegun Lake extinguishing hot spots and securing the perimeter to limit the chance of any further growth towards the community of Fox Creek.
May 20
May 20, 2023 - 1:30 pm
Daily Update: EWF035 (Shining Bank Fire)
There was significant growth to EWF035 - Shining Bank Fire yesterday to the southeast then south in Yellowhead County. There was no growth to the northeast or northwest and no impact to Woodlands County. The County remains in contact with Alberta Wildfire and Yellowhead County to get the latest information on EWF035. Woodlands County is fortunate to have their support during these exceptional times.
Woodlands Countyโs evacuation ALERT remains in place for a southern portion of the municipality. https://bit.ly/4237OnS
Yellowhead County has expanded their evacuation ORDER. https://bit.ly/3MqlTpy
Yellowhead County also has issued an evacuation ALERT for areas south of Shining Bank Fire, north of Hwy 16. https://bit.ly/3OAS0oW
Are you prepared for an emergency?
Do you have an Emergency Kit packed? https://www.alberta.ca/build-an-emergency-kit.aspx
A plan in case of an evacuation? https://www.alberta.ca/prepare-to-evacuate.aspx
What about your livestock? https://www.alberta.ca/farm-animals-and-livestock...
Drive with extreme caution as smoke continues to affect roadway visibility and driving conditions. Visit https://511.alberta.ca/ before you head out for the latest road information and plan your safe route to your destination.
FYI - Woodlands County intends to move its Daily Updates to a morning rhythm. Significant changes will ALWAYS be communicated as they happen.
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - EWF035 Deep Creek Complex | May 20, 2023
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
DEEP CREEK WILDFIRE COMPLEX โ EWF035
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 18,608 ha in size. The fire doubled in size yesterday, but did not increase to the northeast or northwest. The wildfire is now south of Township Road 570, estimated to have burnt down to the south, two kilometers north of the railroad track in Niton Juntion. The fire remains east of Shining Bank Lake, the fire was spotting over the McLeod River the past two days but landowners were putting out hotspots.
There was significant growth yesterday. The fire burnt towards the southeast and then towards the south later in the day. The fire moved extremely fast. Today, we expect southeast winds, potentially spreading the fire towards the northwest, back into spruce stands in the southwest section of the fire. As of noon today, a thick blanket of smoke covers the area which is a benefit for fire activity. Smoke shades the fire from the sun, decreasing temperatures and the fire doesn't have the wind to push the fire through the fuels.
Temperatures today will be similar as yesterday ranging in the mid to high 20s with relative humidity near 25%. These crossover conditions mean that we could experience similar fire behaviour. A new boundary map has been generated and be available later (you can see the new boundary on the AB Status app map).
Sunday, we expect slightly lower temperatures and higher humidity with winds from the north-northeast. Some rain is forecasted for the next two days, however the little precipitation will not be significant enough to improve these hot and dry conditions.
SOUTHEAST OF EWF035
Yesterday, the fire intensity was increasing quickly near 11:00 a.m. and progressed to extreme fire behaviour by noon. The fire spread quickly to the south-southeast through spruce stands and as of 5:00 p.m. the fire moved directly towards the south.
Medium helicopters were bucketing around structures where conditions permitted but had to move away from the wildfire as winds and smoke made it difficult to bucket safely and effectively. Heavy helicopters were also present yesterday, bucketing on structures and around homes, attempting to cool the conditions near the community. The heavy (large) helicopters are available today to assist on the fire but will need to wait until the visibility improves for them to take off.
Seven pieces of heavy equipment were attempting to build a containment line starting from Twp 560 and move towards the south on the northeast side of the wildfire when they encountered a wall of flame that forced them to retreat to safety towards the south. The safety of our firefighters and operators are our first priority. Today, they've been re-positioned and tasked with new line while the fire activity is favorable for them to work near.
On Thursday, airtankers had built a containment line with retardant on the southwest side of the fire. The fire burnt over it very quickly yesterday. Under these extreme fire behaviour conditions, helicopter water buckets, water skimmers and airtankers with retardant are often not effective due to the heat. Firefighters reported seeing 150 ft high flames from the trees and estimate that the fire moved approximately 60 meters per minute. They are effective under certain conditions and not always the best tool for the job. The fire also can spot ahead of itself and over containment lines of any type, especially under these rates of spread. Firefighters could see spotting from the wildfire up to 500 meters ahead of itself, making these conditions very challenging for firefighters.
NORTHWEST OF EWF035
Dozer operators and land owners were assisting with a dozer line to help contain the fire from the 560 moving south along East Bank Road, on the east side of the road. Although we appreciate the help from the public where possible, this is a special situation where the land owners are able to work closely with industry in ensuring the safety of the pipelines and the operators.
Today, firefighters continued to reinforce the containment line they've built with hand ignition burning operation from East Bank Road and moved into the interior of the fire. This burn will add protection to nearby properties, removing available fuel for the fire later on, if the winds change direction. The operation is successful, the winds were in favor for firefighters yesterday and continue to be for them today. The fire did spot across the river into agricultural land in a few places and fortunately the landowner was able to put out the hotspots on their land. Firefighters are also patrolling along the East Bank Road extinguishing hotspots on the west side of the road.
NORTHEAST OF EWF035
Firefighters successfully established a containment line that runs from the 570 down to the 560 on the east side of the wildfire. They nearly completed the hand ignition burn operation, removing as much fuel as possible in the area. Firefighters had to cease their operations as relative humidity and the vegetation was too wet to burn.
We are asking the public to use extra caution around wildfire operations and not walk into the burnt areas. There are unseen hazards, like deep burning ash pits, falling trees because their roots have been burnt away and aren't stable as well as other unknown dangers. Firefighters are highly trained individuals who wear special gear when working near wildfire. We understand that these are stressful times and we assure you we are doing what we can to chase this evermoving wildfire shifting from one side to another on a daily basis.
If you see aircraft in the area, we ask that you move away from the area. They cannot do their job effectively. You may be unintentionally impeding our operations, please give our firefighters the room and time they need to complete their tasks.
By: Caroline Charbonneau.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
Eagle Complex (WWF023)
WWF023 detected on May 5, is burning out of control estimated at 66,645 ha. Containment lines north of the Town of Fox Creek continue to hold.
The Ontario Incident Management Team completed its first full day on the Eagle Complex. Today they are focusing on ensuring the wildfire does not cross the dozer guard in place from Iosegon Lake to Fox Creek, gathering updated information on the fire perimeters weather permitting, and starting work on building a guard around the area where the wildfire crossed Highway 43 north of Fox Creek.
Alberta has 40 firefighters ands support personnel allocated to this fire along with a structural protection unit and the Fox Creek Fire Department. Partners from other jurisdictions include Helitack crew members from Oregon, along with 20 other United States-based firefighters, soldiers from 1 Combat Engineer Regiment, and a 19 member unit crew from New Brunswick.
Equipment includes 1 light, 6 intermediate, 5 medium and 2 heavy helicopters; the heavy helicopters are dedicated to bucketing operations. dedicated to bucketing operations. 4 intermediate helicopters with 1 assessor, 3 medium and 2 heavy helicopters were focused on bucketing operations. Heavy equipment operators continued their efforts.
Additionally, three structural groups from municipalities in the Alberta Wildland Urban Interface Fire Structure Protection Program have been working together on structural protection for the community.
Crews will continue searching for hotspots on an ongoing basis.
Wildfires burn very hot and will burn into the ground. The situation remains ever-changing and conditions on the fire line will continue to vary due to forecasted weather. Containment lines to the north and west of town continue to hold up to to prevent the wildfire from spreading further into the community of Fox Creek.
The fire is burning on the ground surface of the ground but also climbing into the trees and creating a crown fire. Grasses and other fuels remain dry. Smoky conditions are anticipated to continue. Today, NW winds are expected for most of the day. the winds are projected to blow from a NW direction.
Grizzly Complex โ SWF063, SWF064
SWF-063 located approximately seven kilometers south of High Prairie and approximately 16 kilometres northwest of Swan Hills is classified as burning out of control and has burned an estimated 92,742 hectares.
Firefighters continue to work in the northern end of the wildfire extinguishing hotspots. Heavy equipment continues to build fire guard around the fire excursion in the East Prairie Metis Settlement and firefighters are working to extinguish hotspots along the edge of fire guards. In the south end of the wildfire, heavy equipment is building a fire guard and firefighters are working on extinguishing hotspots on along the guard.
There are 56 firefighters and four heavy equipment groups working on this wildfire. East Prairie Metis Settlement and Town of Swan Hills are under an evacuation order. Visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
SWF-064 located over 40 kilometers northwest of Swan Hills is classified as out of control and has burned approximately 22,220 hectares. No significant growth was observed on the wildfire over the past days. The fire guard on the northeast and northwest side of the wildfire is holding. Heavy equipment continues to work on this wildfire.
May 19
Daily Update: EWF035 (Shining Bank Fire)
May 18
Daily Update: EWF035 (Shining Bank Fire), WWF023 (Eagle Fire), SWF063 (Grizzly Complex)
May 17
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
There has been growth on the Shining Bank Fire, predominantly on the south flank in Yellowhead County, south of Township Road 560, where the fire crossed the perimeter. Information about growth and operations is provided below in Edson Forest Area Update.
Woodlands County's Evacuation ALERT will remain in place for the southern portion of the municipality until the situation changes. https://bit.ly/3MudORO
Yellowhead County's Evacuation ORDER for their area remains in place. https://bit.ly/3o1bvwh
As incident command shifts to relieve crews and wildfire activity constantly changes, Woodlands County continues receiving its information from Alberta Wildfire. Best efforts to share this information as it happens is a priority. In between municipal updates, public updates can be viewed by visiting:
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update
Wildfire activity in neighbouring Yellowhead County, Town of Fox Creek & Greenview County, Swan Hills & Big Lakes County is shuffling Albertans into our communities. We welcome our visiting evacuees and ask that we continue to support each other through these uncertain times.
Tune into their local messaging for changing information and details.
https://www.facebook.com/TownofWhitecourt
https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty
https://www.facebook.com/townoffoxcreek
https://www.facebook.com/MDofGreenview
https://www.facebook.com/TownofSwanHills
https://www.facebook.com/biglakescounty
SMOKE from wildfires around the province continues to trigger a Special Air Quality alert, is reducing visibility and causing delays in areas.
Before you travel, check https://511.alberta.ca/ for roadway information.
You can view smoke forecasts by visiting: https://firesmoke.ca/forecasts/current/
Alberta Emergency Alert is your resource for critical and advisory information regarding evacuation alerts and orders. These alerts are updated every 24 hours until information changes for that area.
Download the app and change your settings to receive advisories for specific areas.
https://www.alberta.ca/about-emergency-alerts.aspx
FIRE BANS remain in place. The Forest Protection Areas across Alberta are under strict fire bans to help prevent further wildfires in these high risk continues. View approved and prohibited activities by visiting https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,951 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north and a small southern section of Township Road 560, and east of Shining Bank Lake
There was new growth on the south perimeter of the fire yesterday and again today. The fire burnt down towards the south nearly against Twp road 560. Firefighters will attempt to bring the burn up to the road this evening with assistance from Yellowhead County firefighters. This will help remove the available fuel that the fire could consume later on, when firefighters aren't present to control the burn. It will also allow for better clean up, allowing the fire crews to search for and extinguish the hotspots along the road and work their way north into the burnt areas using water pumps and hose.
The fire did get across Twp Rd 560 and burn into a few stands of trees. The fire is burning easily through conifer (spruce) stands but slows down when it reaches deciduous (poplar/aspen) stands. The fire is approximately half a km wide and half a km long past 560 but burnt a bit more towards the south-southeast today. Heavy equipment was busy putting in containment line ahead of the fire to the south. Equipment operators were able to put approximately one km of line to the west and plan to continue tomorrow. The equipment operators on the east side had to retreat due to intense fire behaviour but the area will be re-assed and containment lines re-established.
Firefighters and heavy equipment operators successfully completed a large priority containment line yesterday which is approximately four dozer blades wide from Twp Rd 570 pointing directly south and tying into Twp Rd 560 (west of Rg Rd 123). This will help contain the fire from moving towards the east, into agricultural land.
Wildland firefighters expect some growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 again tomorrow until the winds change direction.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on priority areas.
Yellowhead County has reported that structural protection crews have been initiating their system over the last several days and are now prepared to action approximately 100 homes. Special flagging of different colours marked โSPUโ are set up on these properties to help firefighters identify operations for that property. This is to identify the placement of pumps and structural protection sprinklers. Please do not remove the flagging. Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
The Deep Creek Complex has a total of 44 firefighters plus 19 incident management firefighters working with 27 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters are assisting the wildfire with aerial assessments and performing bucket operations on the complex.
Today the temperatures stayed between the low to mid 20s with slightly higher relative humidity. This kept the fire behaviour less active then yesterday.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
May 16
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Below the Shining Bank Fire update, and information about WWF029 (north of Athabasca River)
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for Alberta due to wildfire smoke causing poor air quality and reduced visibility.
Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyoneโs health even at low concentrations. Take actions to protect your health and reduce exposure to smoke.
My Health Alberta: https://bit.ly/2xdxh4v
Health Canada: https://bit.ly/3MwI0f3
Woodlands County is aware of the Alberta Emergency Alert (AEA) Evacuation ORDER issued by Yellowhead County.
View the AEA Order: https://bit.ly/432CExK
Wildfire crews will work to extinguish hotspots on the northern boundary of EWF035/Shining Bank Fire tomorrow as they flare-up and create smoke. The fire has not jumped the perimeter. Alberta Wildfire anticipates winds from the north-northwest in the morning, then shift and come from the northeast around noon. Winds are then expected to switch and come from the southeast on Thursday.
Woodlands County has ground crews on scene connecting in-person with residents. The Woodlands County AEA Evacuation ALERT remains in place.
View the AEA Advisory here: https://bit.ly/42IFE2j
The importance of preparedness and being informed is key in these situations.
Emergency Planning: https://www.alberta.ca/make-an-emergency-plan.aspx
Alberta Wildfire Status: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Alberta Emergency Alert: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 16, 2023 (4:00 pm)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,951 ha in size. There was recorded growth to the south of the fire yesterday and a new perimeter was produced. Firefighters have seen additional growth up to Twp Rd 560 and has crossed the road into a stand of conifer trees. A new perimeter will be assessed at a later day. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and a small southern section of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake. Wildland firefighters expect growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 potentially overnight and through the day tomorrow.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Today, groups of heavy equipment finished a priority containment line on the south of the southeast side of the fire, the line is running north-south to prevent the fire from moving towards farmland to the east. The U.S. crews were working on the north side of the fire. The crews continue to search for and extinguish hotspots using water pumps and hose and will continue tomorrow.
Wildland firefighters expect growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 potentially overnight and through the day tomorrow.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Yellowhead County put an evacuation order in place for residences South of EWF-035 May 15 at 20:00 yesterday in anticipation of fire spread to the South.
Yellowhead County has reported that structural protection crews have been initiating their system over the last several days and are now prepared to action approximately 100 homes. Special flagging of different colours marked โSPUโ are set up on these properties to help firefighters identify operations for that property. This is to identify the placement of pumps and structural protection sprinklers. Please do not remove the flagging.
Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
The Deep Creek Complex has a total of 44 firefighters plus 19 incident management firefighters working with 27 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters are assisting the wildfire with assessments and performing bucket operations on the complex.
Today the temperatures remained in the mid to high 20's with winds out of the north-northwest at 15-20 km/h gusting to 25 km/h which will push the fires towards the south. The winds will continue from the northwest then shift and come from the northeast sometime around noon. Winds are expected to switch from the southeast again Thursday.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
WWF029, north of the Athabasca River, Blue Ridge, was detected May 15 afternoon and is classified being held at approximately 0.26 ha. Alberta Wildfire has two ground crews and two helicopter crews on site.
May 15
May 15, 2023 - 9:45 am
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Below the Shining Bank Fire update, is information about WWF029 (north of Athabasca River)
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Woodlands County is aware of the Alberta Emergency Alert (AEA) Evacuation ORDER issued by Yellowhead County.
View the AEA Order: https://bit.ly/3o1bvwh
Alberta Wildfire confirms that there is no anticipated growth north/northeast of EWF035/ Shining Bank Fire. The fire has not jumped the perimeter.
As reported earlier today, Alberta Wildfire anticipated โโฆwinds shifting from the northwest 20-25 km/h gusting up to 50 km/h later this afternoon.โ
Woodlands County has ground crews on scene connecting in-person with residents.
The Woodlands County AEA Evacuation ALERT remains in place.
View the AEA Advisory here: https://bit.ly/3MudORO
The importance of preparedness and being informed is key in these situations.
Emergency Planning: https://www.alberta.ca/make-an-emergency-plan.aspx
Alberta Wildfire Status: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Alberta Emergency Alert: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 15, 2023 (9:30 p.m.)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow, groups of heavy equipment will continue working along the southeast side of the perimeter to create a fire break. Crews and helicopters will work to extinguish larger hotspots on the north boundary line tomorrow as they flare-up and create smoke.
Wildland firefighters expect growth to occur on the south-southeast of the fire perimeter of EWF035 potentially overnight and through the day tomorrow.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Yellowhead County has reported that structural protection crews have been initiating their system over the last several days and are now prepared to action approximately 100 homes. Special flagging of different colours marked โSPUโ are set up on these properties to help firefighters identify operations for that property. This is to identify the placement of pumps and structural protection sprinklers. Please do not remove the flagging.
Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
The Deep Creek Complex has a total of 66 firefighters are working alongside 30 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters are assisting the wildfire with assessments and performing bucket operations on the complex.
Today the temperatures remained in the high 20's with winds out of the southeast at 15-20 km/h gusting to 25 km/h. Tonight, we anticipate a cold front which will bring northern winds and possibly push the wildfire towards the south. These winds will be 20-25 km/h gusting up to 50 km/h later tomorrow afternoon.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer - Caroline Charbonneau at 780-740-1341.
Whitecourt Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update
WWF029, north of the Athabasca River, Blue Ridge, was detected this afternoon and is classified being held at approximately 0.26 ha. Alberta Wildfire has two ground crews and two helicopter crews on site.
May 14 - Update
May 14, 2023 - 9:45 am
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Our neighbours in Yellowhead County issued an AEA Evacuation ALERT for areas east of Shining Bank Lake.
https://bit.ly/3MrGfju
EWF035 is an active incident, and the weather increases wildfire risk and activity.
Have you addressed preparedness? If not, now is the time to stay ahead of any changing situations.
https://www.alberta.ca/prepare-to-evacuate.aspx
Farm animals and livestock? Plan for that too.
https://www.alberta.ca/farm-animals-and-livestock-preparedness.aspx
Stay alert, informed, and prepared.
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow groups of heavy equipment will continue working along the southeast side of the perimeter to create a fire break. Crews and helicopters will work to extinguish larger hotspots on the north boundary line tomorrow afternoon as they flare-up and create smoke.
Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Structure Protection crews from Yellowhead County has expanded their structure protection to more residents in the area, Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have also installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF-035 and will continue to monitor the situation as it continues. Woodlands County has strategically placed staff for night watch on EWF-035 to monitor for fire activity after dark. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
52 firefighters are working alongside 25 pieces of heavy equipment on the Deep Creek Complex. Additionally, eight helicopters performed bucketing operations on the wildfires near affected communities.
Today's weather will remain in the high 20's with winds out of the southeast at 15-20 km/h gusting to 25 km/h.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer at 780-740-1341.
May 14
May 12 - Update 2
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
The anticipated weather arrived. High temps, decreasing humidity, and increased winds helped create the recipe flare-ups today.
BE PREPARED. BE PREPARED. BE PREPARED.
Make a family plan. Pack an emergency kit. Know where you will go.
https://www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx
The Evacuation ALERT for Woodlands County's southern portion remains in effect.
If an evacuation order occurs, it is pushed through Alberta Emergency Alert and broadcast by phone, radio, and TV.Advisories do not take over your phone, so download AEA app, and adjust your setting to receive those notifications. https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
REPORT any suspected wildfire to 310-FIRE.
Albertans who require assistance can call 310-4455 for wildfire-related information 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
FIRE BANS remain in place. Be smart. Be patient. The threat is real.
https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow groups of heavy equipment are going to be working on the southeast side of the perimeter to create a fire break. Airtankers did drop retardant on the northeast side of the wildfire to eliminate spread. Helicopters will drop water to extinguish larger hotspots on the south boundary line tomorrow. Resources are allocated to this fire and will work to extinguish hotspots as they continue to flare-up. Aircraft will continue to report heightened wildfire activity areas to the ground and resources will work on those priority areas.
Structure Protection crews from Yellowhead County, Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF-035. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
52 firefighters are working alongside 25 pieces of heavy equipment on this complex. Additionally, eight helicopters performed bucketing operations on the wildfires near affected communities.
Tomorrow weather will remain in the high 20's and winds will increase out of the south-southeast at 15-20 km/h with gusts of 35 km/h.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer at 780-653-0153 and press 2 for information.
May 12 - Update
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
Be Prepared. Be Prepared. Be Prepared.
https://woodlands.ab.ca/p/emergency-preparedness
Today, Woodlands County issued an evacuation ALERT for a southern portion of the municipality (map in comments).
Incoming high temperatures and low humidity increase wildfire risk. Wildfires, even with some precipitation, burn deep into the ground and dry conditions are a recipe for flare ups. While crews at Alberta Wildfire continue to monitor and suppress, planning and preparedness remain our greatest tools.
Didn't receive today's alert? Download the Alberta Emergency Alert app, and adjust your settings to include ADVISORY alerts. Only CRITICAL alerts will take over phone, radio, and TV. https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Remain informed of the facts.
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
https://woodlands.ab.ca/
https://511.alberta.ca/
Fire ban is still in place. No recreation OHV or outdoor wood burning fires.
Be smart. Be patient. https://www.albertafirebans.ca/
Report any suspected wildfire, 310-FIRE.
Today's Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update:
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km east of Shining Bank. This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 5,332 ha in size. The wildfire is south of Township Road 570, west of Range Road 123, north of Township Road 560 and east of Shining Bank Lake.
There are crews and heavy equipment allocated to the wildfire and they're working to establish containment lines to prevent further spread into rural properties. Tomorrow groups of heavy equipment are going to be working on the south end of the perimeter to create a fire break. Airtankers will drop retardant lines to provide more containment for the wildfire on the northeast side of the wildfire. We have helicopters dropping water on larger hotspots on the south boundary line. These perimeter lines will help build-up containment levels on the north and south side of the wildfire as this is a priority area. Alberta Wildfire is assisting Yellowhead County and Woodlands County with this wildfire.
Structure Protection crews from Yellowhead County, Woodlands County and the Whitecourt Fire Department have installed sprinkler protection on houses in the immediate area of EWF-035.
To stay alert for any evacuation information please visit Alberta Emergency Alerts.
51 firefighters are working alongside 24 pieces of heavy equipment on the Deep
Creek Complex. Additionally, nine helicopters performed bucketing operations on the wildfires near affected communities.
Tomorrow weather will remain in the high 20's and winds to increase out of the south-southeast at 15-20 km/h with gusts of 35 km/h.
We encourage anyone who suspects a wildfire that is not indicated on our app to report it to 310-FIRE.
If you have any questions or concerns about the DEEP CREEK COMPLEX please call the Wildfire Information Officer at 780-653-0153 and press 2 for information.
May 12
WOODLANDS COUNTY ISSUES AN ALBERTA EMERGENCY ALERT
Woodlands County has issued an Alberta Emergency Alert for a southern portion of Woodlands County. There is a wildfire south of Township Road 570, west of RR 123, north of Twp Rd 560 and east of Shining Bank.
The alert is in effect for everyone in the area:
- North of Township Road 561, west of Range Road 120
- South of Groat Creek Road, Twp Rd 584
- West of the McLeod River to RR 144
- East of the McLeod River to RR 123 at Whitecourt Mountain
No evacuation is required currently. With worsening weather conditions, this fire could force evacuation of the affected area. An updated alert will be issued if an evacuation is required.
Everyone in the affected area must prepare for a possible evacuation. Gather pets, important documents, medication and enough food, water, and supplies for at least 3 days. Learn more about emergency preparedness at http://alberta.ca/BePrepared.
Stay tuned to www.alberta.ca/emergencyalert, local media and Woodlands County website for updates.
May 11
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
May 10
May 10, 2023
UPDATE EWF035 - SHINING BANK FIRE
May 9
May 9, 2023
WILDFIRE SUPPRESION ACTIVITIES EWF035
May 6
May 6, 2023
UPDATE Wildfire: Yellowhead County - Edson Forest Area (Near Woodlands County)
Message from Alberta Wildfire: Edson Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 6, 2023 (12:00 p.m.)
https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update
EWF035 was detected on May 5 and is located 3 km southeast of Shining Bank.
This wildfire is classified as out of control and estimated to be 4,376 ha in size.
This wildfire has crossed highway 32 and is being continually assessed by Alberta Wildfire.
Status Updates: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Alberta Wildfire Information Line: 1-866-394-3473 (FYI-FIRE)
May 5
May 5, 2023
Wildfire - Yellowhead County (Near Woodlands County, RR 124 & Twp 555)
Alberta Wildfire has advised a fire is near Woodlands County.
The ~2 hectare fire is in Yellowhead County, south of Whitecourt, near RR 124 & Twp 555.
Weather conditions are pushing the fire west, away from Woodlands County.
Woodlands County Fire Department is in the Anselmo area, notifying home owners. No evacuation orders are in place.
Continue to follow Alberta Wildfire for accurate and up to date information. Woodlands County will provide their messages and updates when they come available.
Sign up for Woodlands County alerts, directly to your phone or email at https://barcc.ca/m/sign-up
Alberta Wildfire Status: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Woodlands County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/woodlandscounty
Woodlands County Website https://woodlands.ab.ca/