Wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is rated as moderate, with some locations seeing lower risk due to lingering snow cover.
That’s up from a low wildfire danger issued in March on the first day of spring.
According to Alberta Wildfire, melting snow is exposing dry grass and other vegetation that can ignite easily and fuel fast-moving grass fires.
Officials say warm temperatures and gusty winds are expected to further dry out vegetation. As is typical for this time of year, conditions remain highly susceptible to burning until green-up occurs and moisture levels increase, raising the risk of human-caused wildfires.
Wildfire situation
There are currently two wildfires classified as under control in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area.
The Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard lists one fire burning south of Nordegg, along with another in the southwest portion of the forest area.
Since Jan. 1, 2026, crews have responded to 11 wildfires in the region.
Permits required
Officials are reminding the public that fire permits are required for all burning — excluding campfires — within Alberta’s Forest Protection Area.
Permits are free and available online or by calling the Rocky Mountain House Forestry Office. Anyone planning to burn is asked to follow all permit conditions and safe burning practices.
Check old burn sites
Residents are also encouraged to revisit burn sites from earlier in the winter.
Even if a fire appears extinguished, officials say it should be monitored for signs of activity. Fires can remain dormant under snow, ash or vegetation and may reignite as conditions become warmer and drier, particularly during windy periods.
Spring wildfire conditions
Officials note that most wildfires at this time of year are caused by human activity.
People are urged to use caution with open flames, ensure fires are fully extinguished before leaving, and keep water and tools nearby to respond quickly if needed.
Mitigation work completed in April around Rocky Mountain House townsite
Controlled burns have recently been carried out around the Rocky Mountain House townsite as part of wildfire mitigation efforts.
Priority areas included:
- Field and brush near the fire department extending southeast toward the Canada Post office
- Land south of the Town Centre Mobile Home Park
- Brush south of 50 Avenue, east of 59 Street Close
- The hill north of the Creekside storm retention pond
- Vacant land between the industrial area and Mud Lake
Officials say residents may have noticed smoke from these controlled burns, which are intended to reduce wildfire risk in and around the community.
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