The risk of sparking a wildfire in the Grande Prairie region has increased just ahead of the long weekend. The wildfire hazard for the Grande Prairie Forest Area is now moderate.
“Though we have had localized precipitation the recent warm weather is drying out fine fuels such as grass and leaves which can contribute to an increased fire hazard,” explains Wildfire Information Officer Kelly Burke. “Due to recent lightning storms, we are also on the lookout for lightning holdover fires which can burn underground and emerge when warm and windy conditions occur.”
Anyone who spots a wildfire or smoke in a forested area is asked to call 310-FIRE immediately. Anyone camping or using off-highway vehicles over the Canada Day week are asked to be careful to prevent human-caused wildfires.