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Wildfire danger rating for Fort McMurray Forest Area changes to very high

Last Updated May 6, 2020 at 3:35 pm MDT

PHOTO. Alberta Wildfire headquarters in Fort McMurray, Alta.

Alberta Wildfire is reporting that the wildfire danger rating for the Fort McMurray Forest Area is very high south of Fort Chipewyan,  and is moderate north of Lake Athabasca.

The provincial fire ban for that area, as well as provincial parks and protected areas is still in effect.

READ MORE: RMWB offers clarity on provincial fire ban

Since the start of wildfire season on March 1 there have been three new wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, one is currently being held and the other two are extinguished.

In total there are 18 wildfires within the province’s Forest Protection Area,12 are under control and six have been turned over to the responsible parties.

There are no off-highway vehicle restrictions currently in place, but Alberta wildfire is re-evaluating the situation daily and will reintroduce restrictions if there is an increase in the danger level.

Cured, dry grass is the largest concern as fires that start will spread quickly under current conditions.