Extreme wildfire conditions present in much of Alberta

A bomber drops fire suppresant on a fire near Grande Prairie, Alta., on May 4, 2025.

Much of Alberta is at extreme risk of wildfire that could be difficult for crews to control, says official government data posted Tuesday.

The forecast from the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System indicates a large area of eastern Alberta, from Cold Lake to about Medicine Hat, is rated as “extreme danger.”

Another portion of the province, in the vicinity of Grande Prairie and High Level, is under the same risk.

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Alberta Wildfire’s available data confirms much of the federal government’s findings, with extreme fire risks in the same areas of the province.

“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,” the agency said about these areas.

There 12 active wildfires in Alberta right now, with most occurring in the upper half of the province.

Two of these are out-of-control; one east of Manning, Alta., which has burned more than 2,250 hectares and another southwest of High Level, Alta., that’s burned approximately 55 hectares.

Alberta Wildfire says most of the wildfires this year have occurred in the Lac La Biche Forest Area (59).

No fire advisories, restrictions or bans are in place for Calgary, but the fire department was called to a blaze near the Bow River on Monday.

Edmonton is also free of all fire restrictions, but some surrounding counties, such as Parkland County, Sturgeon County and Lamont County are under fire bans.

Current wildfire information, including fire bans, restrictions and advisories can be found on the province’s website.