High Wildfire Danger Returns to Kananaskis Despite End of Fire Season

Despite the official end of Alberta's wildfire season, wildfire danger remains high in the Calgary Forest Area, which includes Kananaskis Country and parts of the Bow Valley.

In a Nov. 6 update, Alberta Wildfire warned that unseasonably warm temperatures, limited precipitation and strong winds have created conditions that could allow wildfires to spread quickly, particularly through dry grass.

A fire advisory remains in effect across the Calgary Forest Area, with officiaals urging residents and outdoor enthusiasts to use extra caution.

"There is currently ample dry vegetation exposed on the landscape which could fuel fast moving wildfires," Alberta Wildfire stated.

Many areas have experienced little to no snow cover, leaving dry vegetation exposed to strong, gusty winds.

Although Alberta's wildfire season officially ended Oct. 31, officials warn that wildfires can occur at any time of year, particularly during warm, windy chinook conditions.

The warning follows a relatively quiet wildfire season in the Bow Valley, despite extended periods of high and extreme fire danger.

As previously reported by Bow Valley Insider, the Calgary Forest Area recorded 99 wildfires burning more than 22 hectares by Sept. 23, with no major wildfire taking hold in the Bow Valley.

By Nov. 6, that number had risen to 107 wildfires burning more than 23 hectares.

The risk isn't limited to summer. On Jan. 14, a small wildfire in the MD of Bighorn demonstrated how dry, snow-free conditions can allow fires to start during the winter months.

"Preparedness can reduce risk, but it does not remove it," MD of Bighorn fire chief Rob Duffy previously told Bow Valley Insider.

What Residents Should Know

Under the current advisory, Albertans are encouraged to postpone outdoor burning projects until conditions improve.

Fire permits are no longer required in Alberta's Forest Protection Area between Nov. 1 and March 1, but officials advise against burning when wind speeds exceed 15 km/h.

Campfires must be attended at all times and fully extinguished before leaving.

As of Nov. 6, there were no active wildfires in the Calgary Forest Area.

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Residents can monitor current conditions through the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.