A fire restriction remains in effect for the High Level Forest Area.
The wildfire danger in the High Level Forest Area remains EXTREME. This means that forest fuels are extremely dry and pose a very serious fire risk. Fast-spreading, high-intensity fires are likely, which are very difficult to control.
Winds are expected today and through out the weekend. With the dry conditions and strong winds, a small fire can quickly spread. Please take extra care this weekend.
Keep watch of your surroundings when working or recreating outdoors. Any spark, friction or hot exhaust could start a wildfire. If you see smoke or flame in the forest and suspect it’s a wildfire, call 310-FIRE.
This update is best viewed on a web browser or the AB Wildfire Status App | To view previous High Level Forest Area Updates – Click here. Bold indicates new or important information.
Firefighters are observing moderate to high fire behaviour today on HTZ001. (May 11, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.).
HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA | WILDFIRE SITUATION | MAY 11, 2024
Since January 1, 2024, there have been 33 wildfires in the High Level Forest Area burning a total of 528 hectares (ha). Of these wildfires, four are classified under control (UC).
HTZ001 is a mutual aid wildfire located near Indian Cabins that originated from the Northwest Territories in 2023. The wildfire behaviour has calmed overnight but has significantly increased this morning.
The fire has crossed highway 35 near Indian Cabins and crossed the Hay River. Today, 19 firefighters were assisted by three helicopters and 10 pieces of heavy equipment to build containment line around values at risk and critical infrastructure. Heavy equipment has begun dozer guard from the Hay River to the highway. They will continue building containment lines tomorrow to prevent the spread of the wildfire.
The cloud cover is keeping the fire behaviour moderate to high, however no precipitation is expected in the following days.
Tomorrow, temperatures are expected to be 20’C and 20% relative humidity. Cross over conditions could occur in some areas. This means that the temperature could become greater then the relative humidity. When these conditions occur, extreme fire behaviour can be expected. 15-20 km/h winds, with possible wind gusts are expect to push the fire in a north west direction.
Update from Alberta 511 | Highway 35 from Steen River to Northwest Territories border – Piloted traffic due to wildfire in the area. Drive with caution, visibility is reduced due to smoke. Be prepared for closures without notice due to wildfire activity.
For up-to-date information on highway closures, visit Alberta 511 or download the app.
We kindly ask that the public stay away from the area as firefighters and aircraft work on containing the spread of the wildfire. DO NOT use a drone in the surrounding area of the wildfire. If you’re in the sky, we can’t fly.
