July 26, 2024: Amidst the recent outbreak, five major wildfire complexes exist in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, posing potential threats to public safety, communities, and critical infrastructure. Let’s dive into the details of each complex, starting with the Jasper Wildfire Complex and moving through to the Algar Lake Complex. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and informed about wildfires in Alberta.
Active Wildfires in Alberta
Jasper Wildfire Complex
The Jasper Wildfire Complex, consisting of wildfires ANP002 and ANP003, remains out of control. These fires have merged and now cover an area of 36,000 hectares, spreading towards the Jasper townsite. Cooler temperatures and rainfall have minimized fire activity, allowing crews to progress significantly in suppression efforts. Alberta Wildfire supports Parks Canada with firefighters, heavy equipment, and a helicopter. The Municipality of Jasper has issued an evacuation order for Jasper National Park.
Cattail Lake Complex (MCX002)
The Cattail Lake Complex includes wildfires MWF047, MWF077, and MWF079, all caused by lightning and currently out of control. MWF047, the largest, spans 106,726 hectares and threatens industrial facilities northeast of Fort McKay and Fort McMurray. MWF077 is 17,814 hectares, and MWF079, near the Saskatchewan border, is 345 hectares. Higher humidity and cloud cover have kept fire behavior low. Over 160 firefighters, 19 helicopters, and seven heavy equipment are working on containment.
Kettle River Complex (LCX001)
The Kettle River Complex, comprising 17 wildfires, has seen varied activity. LWF136 is being held at 765 hectares, while LWF164, LWF152, and others remain out of control. Firefighters are making progress with minimal fire behavior reported recently. Over 150 firefighters, nine helicopters, and 14 pieces of heavy equipment are assigned. The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo has rescinded its evacuation alert for Janvier.
Semo Complex (HCX001)
The Semo Complex includes wildfires HWF053, HWF061, HWF081, HWF083, HWF136, and HWF141, all out of control. HWF061, the largest, covers 96,181 hectares near Jon D’or Prairie and Fox Lake. Recent fire activity has led to growth, with night-vision helicopters aiding in suppression. Over 300 firefighters, 15 helicopters, and 73 pieces of heavy equipment are deployed. Evacuation orders are in place for Garden River, John D’or Prairie, and Fox Lake.
Algar Lake Complex (MCX003)
The Algar Lake Complex, consisting of wildfires MWF069, MWF086, and LWF165, remains out of control. MWF069 is 17,183 hectares, and MWF086 is 2,251 hectares, southwest of Fort McMurray. Recent rains have made access challenging, but fire behavior is currently minimal. LWF165, at 1,883 hectares, has seen containment lines established along Highway 63. Over 120 firefighters, 13 helicopters, and 16 pieces of heavy equipment are working on the complex.
While these wildfires are a cause for concern, it’s clear that dedicated firefighters and support teams are working tirelessly to manage and contain them. The smoke from these wildfires has also affected air quality in various regions. For instance, Calgary’s air quality has reached a “high risk” level due to the ongoing wildfires in Alberta, resulting in hazy conditions in the city.
For the most current information on road closures and travel disruptions, visit the Alberta wildfire status dashboard.
Stay safe, Alberta!
This is a developing story. The situation with these wildfires can change rapidly, so please stay tuned for the most up-to-date information.
