This weekend, smoke from raging wildfires in northern Alberta and northeastern British Columbia blanketed Calgary, significantly degrading air quality as residents struggled to breathe amid the hazy chaos.

Fire Bans and Extreme Risks Across Alberta

As officials grapple with extreme wildfire risks in six forest areas, a full fire ban has been enforced across a substantial portion of Alberta, including Rocky View County. This proactive measure aims to prevent new fires and allocate resources to combat the existing blazes.

Evacuations Expand as Wildfires Spread

Late Saturday, the evacuation order in the County of Grande Prairie was expanded due to the destructive Kiskatinaw River wildfire crossing into Alberta. Conversely, a previous evacuation order in Lac la Biche County was lifted, providing some relief to residents.

However, residents of Lesser Slave River remain on high alert, prepared for evacuation with little notice as conditions continue to evolve.

Wildfire Situation Escalates: Over 60 Fires Burning!

As of Monday afternoon, 61 wildfires were ablaze across Alberta, with 25 classified as out of control. So far in 2025, over 615,000 hectares have been consumed by flames—a staggering statistic that speaks to the ferocity of this wildfire season.

Aid Arrives: Firefighters from Across Canada and Beyond

In a show of solidarity, fire personnel and aircraft from British Columbia, Yukon, Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and even states like Washington and Oregon have arrived in Alberta to battle the infernos.

Evacuation Support Available for Affected Residents

Residents who have been evacuated can access financial assistance, while local governments provide crucial information about registration for support, including what essentials to bring.

Governments Pledge to Support Fire Relief Efforts

In a joint effort, various governments have committed to matching donations to the Canadian Red Cross to bolster wildfire relief efforts.

Saddle Hills County Declares Evacuation Order

A new evacuation order was issued in Saddle Hills County due to an out-of-control wildfire threatening the Blueberry Mountain area. Evacuated residents are urged to pack essential documents, medications, and pet supplies for a seven-day stay at designated centers like Blueberry Mountain Hall.

Stay Informed: Understanding the Wildfire Crisis in the West

Wildland firefighters are combating seven notable wildfires across the region, with conditions worsening over the weekend as temperatures rise. Alberta's fire management warns that these conditions are anticipated to continue, escalating the urgency for containment.

Preparing for the Worst: Air Quality Alerts and Fire Restrictions

Calgary is bracing for more poor air quality as forecasters predict elevated risk levels due to persistent smoke from wildfires. Moreover, a comprehensive fire ban covering the entire Forest Protection Area mandates that no open flames are permitted on public or private lands.

The Bigger Picture: Wildfire Crisis Across Canada

This year's wildfire season is proving to be one of the most severe Canada has seen, with provinces like Manitoba and Saskatchewan declaring states of emergency as thousands face evacuation. The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre has alarming statistics indicating that Canada is operating at its highest National Preparedness Levels.

How to Stay Updated on Wildfire Developments

For real-time updates on the wildfire situations in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, residents should consult official government websites and wildfire tracking resources.