An out-of-control wildfire northwest of Rocky Mountain House is being driven by strong winds, as Alberta Wildfire warns of very high wildfire danger across the forest area.

The fire, identified as RWF075, was discovered earlier today and is estimated to be one hectare in size. Despite its relatively small footprint, officials say the blaze is producing considerable smoke due to current conditions.

Alberta Wildfire says crews are making good progress on suppression efforts, with helicopters supporting ground operations by dropping water on the fire.

The public is being asked to avoid the area and give firefighting crews room to work safely.

The wildfire comes as warm daytime temperatures, extremely dry vegetation and strong winds combine to create conditions in which fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly.

Forecast wind gusts exceeding 80 km/h in parts of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area could make new or existing wildfires difficult or impossible to control, Alberta Wildfire said.

Officials say several other wildfires were detected earlier in the day and were extinguished.

Alberta Wildfire said resources are in place and ready to respond to additional wildfire starts.

Residents are also being urged to take precautions with outdoor burning. Within the Forest Protection Area, all burning requires a fire permit, and permit conditions must be followed. When winds exceed 12 km/h, burn piles must be fully extinguished.

Alberta Wildfire also cautioned that campfires and other outdoor fires can spark human-caused wildfires if they are not properly extinguished. Cooler temperatures, frost and even light snowfall do not guarantee a fire is out, as embers can smoulder underground and reignite when conditions become favourable.

For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, residents are asked to visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.