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FORT McMURRAY — Alberta’s wildfire season officially ends Friday, closing one of the quietest seasons in recent years for the Fort McMurray Forest Area.
Cooler weather and recent moisture have lowered the wildfire danger to moderate near Fort Smith and low elsewhere in the region, according to Alberta Wildfire. Only three active fires remain in the Fort McMurray area, all classified as under control and located north of Fort Chipewyan, including one mutual aid fire that originated in Wood Buffalo National Park.
Provincewide, crews have responded to 1,263 wildfires since the season began in the spring, burning just over 680,000 hectares. Only 29 fires are still active and none are listed as out of control.
The Lac La Biche Forest Area recorded nearly 250 fires, making it the busiest this year. Fort McMurray saw 62 fires, tying it with the Calgary forest area for the fewest. It marks a welcome shift after back to back difficult seasons that prompted the evacuation of Fort Chipewyan in 2023 and a partial evacuation order for Fort McMurray in 2024.
Despite the formal end of fire season on Oct. 31, officials say wildfire prevention remains critical while the ground is snow free. A fire advisory remains in place for the Fort McMurray Forest Area, meaning safe campfires are allowed but new permits will be limited to essential burning.
People spending time on the land, including hunters during the busy fall season, are reminded to keep campfires small, never leave them unattended and fully extinguish them by soaking, stirring and soaking the ashes again.
Wildfire staffing efforts are already underway for next year, with Alberta Wildfire now recruiting wildland firefighters for the 2026 season.
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