Alberta prepares for an extended wildfire season driven by drought conditions

Alberta is facing another challenging fire season as officials warn of volatile conditions ahead. With a lack of winter snow cover leaving many communities parched, Albertans are being urged to be vigilant in the coming weeks.

Christie Tucker, an Alberta Wildfire information unit manager, stated that crews are gearing up for a tough season despite a temporary dip in temperatures. The ongoing drought conditions in the province have heightened the risk of wildfires, especially with the high winds that have been prevalent.

Currently, there are 50 wildfires burning across Alberta, with four being held and 46 under control. While none of the fires pose a threat to communities or critical infrastructure, officials are closely monitoring the situation.

The early start to the fire season was attributed to fires that began during last year’s unprecedented season and smouldered through winter. With 64 wildfires still burning from last year, firefighters are facing a heavier workload than usual.

The risk of wildfires in Alberta ranges from low to high, with areas like Lac La Biche and Peace River considered most at risk due to current conditions. Drought conditions in southern Alberta and disappearing snow cover in the north have further exacerbated the situation.

Despite the challenges, Alberta is well-prepared to respond to wildfires, with hundreds of trained firefighters ready to be deployed. The government has also secured additional resources, including air tankers and helicopters equipped with night vision.

Last year’s record-breaking wildfire season serves as a reminder of the importance of prevention. With the majority of forest fires in Alberta being human-caused, officials are urging Albertans to do their part in reducing the risk of wildfires.

As the province braces for a potentially long season ahead, cooperation and vigilance will be key in mitigating the impact of wildfires in Alberta.