High wildfire danger prompts fire advisory in Rocky Mountain House Forest Area

Alberta Wildfire says the risk of ignition in the West Country is high due to unseasonably warm, dry and windy conditions.

The dry conditions have prompted a fire advisory for the region as high winds and dry vegetation increase the risk of wildfires starting and spreading quickly.

Although the legislated wildfire season ended Oct. 31, officials say wildfires can still occur at any time of year when conditions are dry.

Fire advisory

The fire advisory is in effect for the entire Clearwater County area — both the Forest Protection Area and Non-Forest Protection Areas. As of Friday afternoon, there are no fire restrictions in the town of Rocky Mountain House.

Under the advisory, safe wood campfires on public and private lands and in designated campgrounds are allowed. View a complete list of approved activities here.

Officials say the restrictions will remain in place until conditions improve.

End of wildfire season

Oct. 31 marked the end of the 2026 legislated wildfire season.

As of Nov. 1, fire permits are no longer required in Alberta’s Forest Protection Area. However, wildfires can start at any time of year when conditions are dry.

However, burn notifications must now be made year-round to Clearwater County in both the FPA and non-FPA areas. More information on burn notifications can be found here.

–

RELATED

–

Check fall burn sites

With strong winds expected this weekend, Albertans are encouraged to check their fall burn sites to ensure all fires are completely extinguished.

Soak the ashes with water, stir them and soak them again. Officials say burn sites can continue to smoulder underground and resurface during windy conditions, potentially starting a wildfire.