First wildfire-free August day in 40 years in Alberta

Alberta Wildfire says this week marked a first in 40 years, that on Monday (August 17), there were no wildfires burning in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta during the month of August.

The story has since changed. Currently, there are two small wildfires that are classified as being held in the High Level Forest Area. Both less than half a hectare in size.

Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen said in a post on social media that the wildfire-free day didn’t happen by accident or just favourable weather this summer, but through the work of “the men and women on the ground, our wildland firefighters, air crews, dispatchers and support staff, who have been out there since spring keeping fires small and extinguishing before they become disasters.”

You can stay up to date on all active and past blazes in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta online through the Alberta Wildfire dashboard.