Hexwave Drone of Smoke, August 3, 2025 Photo with permission of Matt Salem and Hexwave Media
Mac Island reopens afterregion sees worst air quality since 2016 wildfire
FORT McMURRAY, Alta. — Thick wildfire smoke and extreme fire danger levels are impacting the Fort McMurray and Lac La Biche forest areas, with officials warning that conditions could remain hazardous in the days ahead.
Over the weekend, air quality in Fort McMurray plummeted to its worst levels since the devastating 2016 wildfire, prompting the Regional Recreation Corporation (RRC) to temporarily close MacDonald Island Park out of caution. Visibility dropped to less than 100 metres, with residents sharing dramatic drone footage of the smoke-filled skies.
The fire danger remains classified as very high to extreme across the region, driven by hot, dry conditions and shifting winds. Fires burning throughout the northern boreal forest are pushing waves of smoke southward.
According to FireSmoke.ca, the region can expect smoke to drift in and out over the coming days, though not at the same intensity seen on Sunday.
Mac Island has since reopened, but officials continue to urge residents to monitor air quality and wildfire conditions. Fire bans and restrictions are in effect in several areas. Albertans are encouraged to check AlbertaFireBans.ca before lighting campfires or planning backcountry travel.
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