Active Fire: Redwater Recreation Area

Update #38: Fire under control, fire ban reduced to fire restriction; 9:00AM, May 21 

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of Sturgeon County, the Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership, and Alberta Wildfire firefighters and staff, the Redwater Recreation Area fire is now classified as under control. This means the fire has been effectively contained and is no longer spreading. 

We thank the more than 200 emergency response personnel who worked tirelessly for over two weeks to battle this fire, with no loss of life and with loss of property limited to three dwellings: a house, a recreational cabin and an RV trailer. 

The fire remains at 3,230 hectares in size. 

Fire crews have made excellent progress and continue to target and extinguish hot spots within the fire’s interior. Helicopter support remains on standby if needed. 

For your safety and the safety of emergency personnel, please respect all road closures and avoid entering burned areas. Firefighters require space to work safely and efficiently. The Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks until further notice.  

Effective 9:00 a.m. today (May 21), Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency is no longer in effect, the OHV/ATV ban is lifted, and the fire ban has been reduced to a fire restriction.  

With the fire now under control, this will be the final daily update on this incident. Future updates will be issued as needed, when there are significant developments to share. 

Important reminders to note:  

• The Re-entry Support Centre and phone lines are now closed. Sturgeon County residents requiring support can contact Sturgeon County’s Living Well team for assistance, at 780-722-1479. 
• RR 205 between Victoria Trail and TWP RD 574 is closed until further notice. This does not impact access to any residences in the area.  
• Being FireSmart is a shared responsibility. Help keep our community safe this summer by following these practical fire prevention strategies. 

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Update #37: Re-entry Support Centre and phone line closed; 3:00PM, May 20 

Thanks to the continued efforts of firefighters and the responsible actions of the public over the long weekend, the Redwater Recreation Area fire remains held at 3,230 hectares. 

Please note that the Re-entry Support Centre and phone lines are now closed. Sturgeon County residents requiring support can contact Sturgeon County’s Living Well team for assistance, at 780-722-1479. 

The following guidelines remain in place:  

• The Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation.  

• RR 205 between Victoria Trail and TWP RD 574 is closed until further notice. This does not impact access to any residences in the area.  

• For your safety and the safety of firefighters, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas. 

• Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency remains in effect and the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place.  

• If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible. 

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Update #36: Fire being held at 3,230 hectares, 11:00AM May 19

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is being held at 3,230 hectares.

Firefighters continue to target hot spots in the interior of the fire and are working to extinguish them. Helicopter support remains available if required.

Please note the following important reminders:

• The Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation.
• RR 205 between Victoria Trail and TWP RD 574 is closed until further notice. This does not impact access to any residences in the area.
• For your safety and the safety of firefighters, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas.
• Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency remains in effect and the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place.
• If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible.

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Update #35: Crews continue to target fire hotspots, 11:00AM May 18

The Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation. Please note that RR 205 between Victoria Trail and TWP RD 574 is closed until further notice. This does not impact access to any residences in the area.  

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is being held at 3,230 hectares.

Firefighters continue to target hot spots in the interior of the fire and are working to extinguish them. Helicopter support is available if required. For your safety and the safety of firefighters, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas.

Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency remains in effect and the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place. If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible.  

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Update #34: Fire and ATV ban contraventions result in fines, 11:00AM May 17

Since the fire ban began, Sturgeon County has responded to 13 reports of fire and OHV/ATV ban contraventions. A violation of the fire and OHV/ATV bans can result in a fine starting at $500 all the way up to the cost of an emergency response. These types of calls take firefighters and peace officers away from urgent emergency response. Members of the public are reminded again that Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency remains in effect and that the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place. If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible.

The Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation. Please note that RR 205 between Victoria Trail and TWP RD 574 will be closed until further notice. This does not impact access to any residences in the area.

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is being held at 3,230 hectares.

Alberta Wildfire conducted an infrared scan of the fire last night to detect hot spots. Firefighters will target these hot spots today and work to extinguish them. Significant time and effort will be required to complete this work. Helicopter support is available if required.

For your safety and the safety of firefighters, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas.

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Update #33: Total fire and OHV/ATV ban still in place; 
state of local emergency remains in place – 11:00AM, May 16

Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency remains in effect. The public is reminded that the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place. 

Starting today, at 16:30 (4:30PM) the Re-entry Support Centre at Pembina Place will be permanently closed. The line for general questions remains available at 587-570-6610. 

Evacuees may be eligible for emergency evacuation payments from the Government of Alberta. To understand if you are eligible, visit Alberta.ca/emergency. 

At this time, and until further notice, the Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation. Please note that RR 205 between Victoria Trail and TWP RD 574 will be closed until further notice. This does not impact access to any residences in the area.  

There are falling trees, exposed roots, and unstable ground in the Redwater Recreation Area. With the winds increasing, these hazards become even more unpredictable and dangerous. For your safety, remain out of this area. Operating OHVs/ATVs is prohibited in the park or anywhere in the County. 

With the long weekend approaching, please keep in mind that the risk of wildfires is at an all-time high. No outdoor fires are allowed, and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. 

If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible. 

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is being held at 3,230 hectares. 

Firefighters continue to look for and extinguish remaining hot spots in the interior of the fire. This work takes time, as the fire has burned deeply into the ground in some areas. Helicopter support is available if required. 

Firefighters need space to do their work safely. For your safety and the safety of first responders, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas. 

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Update #32: Total fire and OHV/ATV ban still in place; state of local emergency remains in place  3:15PM, May 15

Sturgeon County’s State of Local Emergency remains in effect. The public is reminded that the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place. 

Evacuees may be eligible for emergency evacuation payments from the Government of Alberta. To understand if you are eligible, visit Alberta.ca/emergency. 

At this time, and until further notice, the Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation. There are falling trees, exposed roots, and unstable ground in this area. With the winds increasing, these hazards become even more unpredictable and dangerous. For your safety, remain out of this area. Operating OHVs/ATVs is prohibited in the park or anywhere in the County. 

With the long weekend approaching, please keep in mind that the risk of wildfires is at an all-time high. No outdoor fires are allowed, and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. 

If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible. 

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is being held at 3,230 hectares. Rain fell on the fire overnight and today, with some areas receiving as much as 14 mm. While we had rain fall in the area, it did not decrease the severity of the fire. Fire can still burn deeply into the ground.   

Firefighters are looking for and extinguishing hot spots in the interior of the fire. Helicopter support is available if required. 

Firefighters need space to do their work safely. For your safety and the safety of first responders, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas. 

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Update #31: Total fire and OHV/ATV ban still in place; 
Sturgeon County remains under a state of local emergency  3:15PM, May 14

Power companies are still working in the previous evacuation area today. We are aware of two remaining downed lines near impacted properties for which repair plans are in place. 

Always consider a downed power line to be energized and remain at least 7-metres away. Do not touch or attempt to move the line yourself.  

If you find a downed line or damaged power pole that looks unstable, immediately contact 310-WIRE to report the location.  

The Re-entry Support Centre line for general questions, including those on reclamation services, remains available at 587-570-6610. 

Despite the evacuation order being lifted, Sturgeon County remains under a state of local emergency. The public is reminded that the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place.  

At this time, and until further notice, the Redwater Recreation Area remains closed by Alberta Parks as we continue to be in an active fire situation. Operating OHVs/ATVs is not allowed in the park or anywhere in the County. 

With the long weekend approaching, please keep in mind that the risk of wildfires is at an all-time high. No outdoor fires are allowed, and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. 

If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible. 

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is being held at 3,230 hectares. Firefighters continue to extinguish hot spots in the interior of the fire with the support of helicopters. 

Firefighters need space to do their work safely. For your safety and the safety of first responders, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas. 

Residents may notice smoke, as unburnt pockets of vegetation within the interior of the fire can ignite as the day warms up. This is normal and expected.  

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Update #30: Evacuation order lifted; fire classified as being held 
5:00PM, May 13 

NOTE: starting tomorrow (May 14), we will shift to one media update per day, generally aiming for mid-afternoon (between 3-5 p.m.).  

The evacuation order for the Redwater Recreation Area fire is lifted, effective 9:00 am on May 13, 2025. Evacuated residents are now permitted to return to their homes. A re-entry guide with important information is available at SturgeonCounty.ca to assist residents with re-entry. Printed guides are also available at Pembina Place, located at 4944-53 Street, Redwater, AB T0A 2W1, which is serving as the Re-entry Support Centre. Residents are urged to review the instructions in the re-entry guide prior to returning home.  

Residents returning home should be extremely cautious around burnt trees. Trees with burnt root systems or trees that are partially burnt can fall easily and without warning, especially in windy conditions. They pose a significant risk of serious or fatal injury.  

Firefighters need space to do their work safely. For your safety and the safety of first responders, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas. 

Despite the evacuation order being lifted, Sturgeon County remains under a state of local emergency. The public is reminded that the total fire and OHV/ATV ban is still in place. Even with the evacuation order lifted in the Redwater Recreation Area, we are still in a dangerous and active fire situation. OHVs/ATVs are not allowed in the park or anywhere in the County. 

With the long weekend approaching, please keep in mind that the risk of wildfires is at an all-time high. No outdoor fires are allowed, and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. 

If you witness a ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418 as soon as possible. 

The Redwater Recreation Area Fire is classified as being held, at 3,230 hectares. This means the fire is not expected to grow beyond its existing boundaries, given current weather conditions and resources. 

Firefighters continue to extinguish hot spots in the interior of the fire. This work will take time. The fire has burned deeply into the ground in some areas. 

Residents may notice smoke, as unburnt pockets of vegetation within the interior of the fire can ignite as the day warms up. This is normal and expected. 

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Update #29: Evacuation order lifted; fire classified as being held – 9:00AM, May 13

The evacuation order for the Redwater Recreation Area fire is lifted, effective 9:00 am on May 13, 2025. Despite the evacuation order being lifted, Sturgeon County remains under a state of local emergency. Evacuated residents are now permitted to return to their homes. A re-entry guide with important information is available at SturgeonCounty.ca to assist residents with re-entry. Printed guides are also available at Pembina Place, located at 4944-53 St, Redwater, AB T0A 2W1, which is serving as the Re-entry Support Centre. Residents are urged to review the instructions in the re-entry guide prior to returning home.  

For the safety of residents, if fire activity has occurred around their home, a safe distance (two tree lengths) must be maintained from burnt standing trees, which pose extreme danger. 

Thanks to the hard work of Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership (SREMP), Sturgeon County and Alberta Wildfire firefighters and staff, the Redwater Recreation Area fire is now classified as being held. This means that the fire is not expected to grow beyond its existing boundaries, given current weather conditions and resources.  

Firefighters have made excellent progress, but there is still work ahead to bring this wildfire under control. The size of the fire has been updated to 3,230 hectares, after more accurate data was received. There are hot spots within the interior of this fire that need to be extinguished. This work will take time. The fire has burned deeply into the ground in some areas. Firefighters need to dig and expose the hot spots, then douse them with water. 

Firefighters need space to do their work safely. For your safety and the safety of emergency responders, please respect road closures and avoid burned areas. 

Update #28: Evacuation order still in place; Alert lifted – 6:15 PM, May 12

The surrounding evacuation alert area for the Redwater Recreation Area fire is lifted, effective 16:45hrs (4:45 pm) on May 12, 2025. THE EVACUATION ORDER REMAINS IN EFFECT for all areas located from Range Road 213 East to Range Road 203, all areas located from Township Road 580 South to the North Saskatchewan River. Active fire response efforts continue in the evacuation area. 

There was no growth on the Redwater Recreation Area fire today. The size is still estimated to be 3,214 hectares. The fire remains classified as out of control. 

The fire showed very little new activity again today. Firefighters continue to make excellent progress on containing the perimeter, with the support of helicopters. 
 
Today’s rain showers will further help reduce fire activity. Firefighters and security will continue to patrol around residences overnight. 

A resident information line for general questions is available to evacuees at 587-200-3068. Additional information can be found on Sturgeon County’s Evacuation Information webpage. 

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Update #27: Alert Area Lifted – EVACUATION ORDER REMAINS IN PLACE, 4:45PM May 12, 2025

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Update #26: Fire Response Update, 11:00AM May 12, 2025

Residents evacuated from their homes and the general public are reminded they must stay away from the evacuation area. Enforcement officers are patrolling the evacuation zone, and anyone found in that zone without authorization could be charged. Entering the evacuation zone puts the public and emergency response staff at risk, which may draw resources away from the fire response. 

Emergency responders are preparing plans to enable the re-entry of residents as soon as emergency responders determine it is safe to do so. Once this is confirmed, re-entry will be communicated to residents. 

The Redwater Recreation Area fire is still classified as out of control, at 3,214 hectares in size. The fire showed little new activity yesterday. Firefighters continue to make good progress on containing the perimeter of the fire, with the support of helicopters. A crew of firefighters worked overnight to patrol around residences. 

Rain did not fall on the fire overnight, but higher humidity continues to keep the fire behaviour low. Alberta Wildfire used a drone to conduct an infrared scan of the fire last evening. The scan detects hot spots, which helps firefighters focus their efforts. 

Residents may notice smoke today, as unburnt pockets of vegetation within the interior of the fire can ignite as the day warms up. This is normal and expected.  

The hours for the Reception Centre at the Morinville Leisure Centre changed on May 12. The new hours are 7 AM to 5 PM daily. Reception Centre staff will be on call ready to respond if the wildfire situation changes.  

Those who have not yet registered must check in at the Reception Centre either in-person at the Morinville Leisure Centre (25126 Secondary Highway 642) or by phone at 587-570-6610. 

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Update #25: Fire Response Update, 6:00PM May 11, 2025

Air monitoring stations are in place near the Redwater Recreation Area Fire. They are actively recording air quality, and the status is available through Alberta Environment and Protected Areas and Heartland Air Monitoring Partnership. Residents are asked to continue to check local air quality alerts and guidelines to understand current smoke levels and make informed decisions about outdoor activity. 

The hours for the Reception Centre at the Morinville Leisure Centre are changing effective Monday, May 12. The new hours are 7 AM to 5 PM daily. Reception Centre staff will be on call ready to respond if the wildfire situation changes.  

Those who have not yet registered must check in at the Reception Centre either in-person at the Morinville Leisure Centre (25126 Secondary Highway 642) or by phone at 587-570-6610. 

We continue to hear concerns from evacuated residents about the security of their homes, perishable goods, and animals; however, the Redwater Recreation Area Fire remains an active fire. The priority is the safety of the public and emergency response staff.  

 Residents evacuated from their homes area must stay away from the evacuation area. Enforcement officers will be patrolling the evacuation zone, anyone found in that zone without authorization could be charged. Persons entering the evacuation zone put themselves and emergency response staff at risk, which may draw resources away from the fire response. 

There was no growth on the Redwater Recreation Area fire today. The size is still estimated to be 3,214 hectares. The fire remains classified as out of control. 

The fire showed very little activity today. Firefighters continue to make good progress on containing the perimeter, with the support of helicopters. Firefighters will continue to patrol around residences overnight. 

Alberta Wildfire will be using a drone to conduct an infrared scan of the fire again this evening. The scan detects hot spots, which helps firefighters focus their efforts. 

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Update #24: Fire Response Update, 11:00AM May 11, 2025

We continue to hear concerns from evacuated residents about security of their homes, perishable goods, and animals, however the Redwater Recreation Fire remains an active fire. The priority is the safety of the public and emergency response staff. 

Residents evacuated from their homes area must stay away from the evacuation area. Enforcement officers will be patrolling the evacuation zone, anyone found in that zone without authorization could be charged. Persons entering the evacuation put themselves and emergency response staff at risk, which may draw resources away from the fire response. 

All evacuees from the affected area who have not yet done so must check in with the Reception Centre, either in-person at the Morinville Leisure Centre, 25126 Secondary Highway 642, or by phone at 587-570-6610. Residents with general questions can call the information line at 587-200-3068.  

The Redwater Recreation Area fire is still classified as out of control, at 3,214 hectares in size. 

Cloud cover helped lower the intensity of the fire again yesterday. Firefighters were able to make good progress on containing the perimeter, with the support of helicopters. 

A crew of firefighters worked overnight to patrol and maintain structure protection around residences. 

Alberta Wildfire used a drone to conduct an infrared scan of the fire last evening. The scan detects hot spots of the fire, which helps firefighters focus their efforts. The drone was able to do a partial scan before rain prevented further scanning. 

About 1 mm of rain fell on the fire last night, which should help keep fire activity low again today. 

Residents may notice smoke, as unburnt pockets of vegetation within the perimeter of the fire can ignite as the day warms up. This is normal and expected.  

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Update #23: Fire Response Update, 6:10PM May 10, 2025

Questions continue to come in from residents eager to get back to their homes. We understand residents’ concerns and their desire to return. Emergency crews are doing everything they can to make this happen as soon as possible. 

The RCMP are actively patrolling the evacuation area. No unauthorized persons are permitted in the evacuation area. Evacuation orders are mandatory, and they are legally binding directives issued under provincial emergency management statutes. 

It is important to recognize that we remain in a dangerous, active fire situation. Emergency response staff are currently making plans to support the safe re-entry of the public back to their homes. 

There was minimal growth on the Redwater Recreation Area fire again today. The size is estimated to be 3,214 hectares. The fire remains classified as out of control. 

Cloud cover helped lower the intensity of the fire again today. Firefighters were able to make good progress on containing the perimeter, with the support of helicopters. 

Firefighters continue to work overnight to patrol and maintain structure protection around residences. 

Alberta Wildfire will be using a drone to conduct an infrared scan of the fire this evening. The scan detects hot spots, which will help firefighters focus their efforts. 

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Update #22: Fire Response Update, 11:00AM May 10, 2025

All evacuees from the affected area who have not yet done so must check in with the Reception Centre, either in-person at the Morinville Leisure Centre, 25126 Secondary Highway 642, or by phone at 587-570-6610. Residents with general questions can call the information line at 587-200-3068. 

Evacuated residents are understandably concerned about the status of perishable goods in their home and emergency crews recognize residents’ desire to return to their properties. However, we remain in an active fire situation and the priority continues to be on safety of the public and emergency response staff.  

The Redwater Recreation Area fire is still classified as out of control, at 3,209 hectares in size. 

There was minimal new activity on the fire yesterday. Firefighters worked overnight to patrol and secure structure protection on residences. 

Firefighters are continuing their work today to contain the fire’s perimeter. They are focusing their efforts on the southwest corner of the fire, with the support of helicopters. Heavy equipment operators are also building containment lines where possible. Cloud cover is expected again today, which could help lower the fire’s intensity. 

Residents may notice smoke, as unburnt pockets of vegetation within the perimeter of the fire can ignite as the day warms up. This is normal and expected.  

On May 8, Sturgeon County crews received reports of a campfire, which required a response by our fire services to remind them that the total fire and ATV/OHV ban is still in place. The County remains in a State of Local Emergency as we battle an out-of-control wildfire. With the risk of wildfires at an all-time high, no outdoor fires allowed, and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued.  

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Update #21: Fire Response Update, 6:30PM May 9, 2025

The Rapid Damage Assessment Team completed 23 property inspections today and confirmed that none of the structures showed significant exterior fire damage. The team will continue with assessment work tomorrow. 

The roads in and around the evacuation area continue to remain closed. All commuters are asked to stay away from the area to give emergency crews space to work. Road closures may be expanded as needed.  

Sturgeon County residents are reminded that with the risk of wildfires at an all-time high, the County remains under a fire and ATV/OHV ban. No outdoor fires are allowed and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. To report a fire ban violation, please call the complaint line at 780-939-8418.  

There was minimal growth on the Redwater Recreation Area fire today. The size is now estimated to be 3,200 hectares. 

Cloud cover helped lower the intensity of the fire today. Firefighters were able to make good progress on containing the perimeter. They focused their efforts on the south side of the fire. Heavy equipment operators continued to build containment lines and helicopters dropped water on hot spots. 

A crew of municipal firefighters will work overnight to patrol and maintain structure protection around residences. 

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Update #20: Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership has partnered with Alberta Forestry, 11:15AM May 9, 2025  

The Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership (SREMP) has requested assistance from Alberta Forestry and transitioned operations to a joint model. Sharing command allows access to more resources and will provide SREMP’s emergency response staff with much-needed rest. 

Alberta Forestry will be the lead on fire operations and the focus for SREMP will be on supporting residents, and providing planning, logistics, information and resources to support the front-line effort. SREMP is grateful for the support of the province and looks forward to working together to get this fire under control. 

The Redwater Recreation Area fire was active yesterday due to strong winds from the northwest. Despite the wind, higher humidity and cooler temperatures helped lower the fire’s intensity and firefighting crews made good progress. Two night-vision-capable helicopters worked overnight to extinguish hot spots. Municipal firefighters also worked overnight to patrol and secure structure protection on residences. 

Today, firefighters will continue to work towards containing the fire’s perimeter, with the support of helicopters and heavy equipment operators. Residents may notice smoke, as interior parts of the fire can flare up as the day warms up. This is normal and expected.  

The Rapid Damage Assessment Team will continue working in the evacuation order zone to assess structural damage and to ensure no livestock or pets were left behind. 

Residents are reminded that with the risk of wildfires at an all-time high, Sturgeon County remains under a fire and ATV/OHV ban. No outdoor fires are allowed, and no new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. 

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Update #19B: Fire response update, 3:15PM May 8, 2025

The size of Redwater Recreation fire is currently 3,060 hectares. An additional two helicopter bucket units have been deployed today in addition to other support resources. 

Since the start of the Redwater Recreation Area fire response, a total of 56 residences have been evacuated. As of the time of this release, no further structures beyond the one identified on May 3 have been lost as a result of the fire. Emergency response will be in the evacuation alert area tomorrow to assess additional structures. 

Members of the public are encouraged to do their due diligence when donating to fundraisers online. Bad actors may take advantage of the situation and the public’s goodwill.  

The evacuation alert area remains unchanged and applies to everyone located East of Range Road 223 to the North Saskatchewan River and between Township Road 580 South to Township Road 570, including the Town of Redwater.   

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Update #19: Fire response update, 3:15PM May 8, 2025

Since 2 p.m. on May 7, the fire has doubled in size, to a total of approximately 3000 hectares. The threat of further fire spread continues, with high winds in the forecast into tomorrow. The evacuation alert area remains unchanged and applies to everyone located East of Range Road 223 to the North Saskatchewan River and between Township Road 580 South to Township Road 570, including the Town of Redwater.  

As of the time of this update, no further structures beyond the one identified on May 3 have been lost as a result of the fire. Crews continue to work diligently on fire containment and protection of property. 

Evacuated residents are understandably concerned about the status of perishable goods in their home and emergency crews recognize residents’ desire to return to their properties. However, we are currently in an active fire situation and the priority continues to be on the safety of the public and emergency response staff. 

The evacuation order remains unchanged and applies to everyone between Range Road 213 East to Range Road 203 and Township Road 580 South to the North Saskatchewan River.  

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Update #18: Evacuated residents must register with Reception Centre, 10:40AM May 8, 2025 

At approximately 11pm on May 7, the evacuation order was expanded to include everyone between Range Road 213 East to Range Road 203 and Township Road 580 South to the North Saskatchewan River. All affected residents were evacuated safely. All roads within the evacuation area are closed and residents are asked to stay away from the area to give emergency crews space to work. Road closures may be expanded as needed. 

It is critical for residents from the evacuation area to register with the Reception Centre to confirm you have safely left the evacuation area. Please register if you have not yet done so. You can register in person at the Morinville Leisure Centre, at 25126 Secondary Highway 642, AB, or by phone at 587-570-6610. Registering also ensures coordination of necessary supports. The Reception Centre remains in 24-hour operations until further notice. For general inquiries, residents can contact the information line at 587-200-3068. 

Today, fire crews remain focused on fire containment and preparing for potential high fire behaviour later today due to gusting winds. 

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Update #17: Evacuation Order Area has been expanded, 10:40PM May 7, 2025 

Sturgeon County has expanded the state of local emergency (SOLE) east to RR230

Sturgeon County has expanded the state of local emergency to include areas east to Range Road 230. The affected areas include RR205 to Victoria Trail; Township 574 to Range Road 205; and Township Road 574 to Range Road 203. The fire has not crossed the North Saskatchewan River at the time of this update. 

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Update 16: New Reception Centre Hours 7:15PM May 7, 2025

With the majority of evacuated residents now registered, the Reception Centre, located at Morinville Leisure Centre, will be closing tonight (May 7, 2025) at 10 p.m. 

Beginning on May 8, 2025 the Reception Centre will be operating from 8am to 8pm. Should evacuation orders expand, Reception Centre operating hours will be adjusted accordingly. The resident information line (587-200-3068) will remain open for people affected by the evacuation. 

The Reception Centre is located at the Morinville Leisure Centre, at 25126 Secondary Highway 642, AB.   

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Update #15: Evacuation order and alert remain unchanged, 2:40PM May 7, 2025

Since the last update, there are no changes to evacuation orders or alerts. The size of the fire is currently approximately 1500 hectares and the perimeter is 28 linear kilometres. 

Following the evacuation alert for the Town of Redwater, the Redwater Health Centre, Diamond Spring Lodge (patients from the second floor designated supportive living program have been evacuated, remaining patients are on evacuation alert) and local schools proactively took measures to evacuate patients, residents and students from their buildings. 

While offers of support are appreciated, we currently do not need volunteers or support from outside agencies and are not collecting donations at the Reception Centre. Residents who wish to volunteer for this emergency response are asked to complete the volunteer contact information form. Contact information will be saved for future use in the event that additional volunteers are needed. 

To maintain the safety of the public and emergency response staff, we ask that people do not show up at the incident location to offer help. 

For additional vendors looking to offer equipment, although we do not require support at this time, we are collecting vendor information should additional support be needed. We ask that vendors send an email to procurement@sturgeoncounty.ca with the following details: 

• Worker’s Compensation Board (WCB), COR/SECOR certification information; 
• Confirmation that their rates are in alignment with the Alberta Road Builder Rates; 
• Rates and service charges; and 
• What equipment they have available for support. 

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Update #14: Evacuation Alert Area has been expanded, 2:40AM May 7, 2025

Existing evacuation order remains in effect: 

The evacuation order for Sturgeon County residents living on Range Road 213 East to Range Road 203 and between Township Road 580 South to Township Road 573 are affected remains in place.  

The reception centre has been relocated: 

The Reception Centre has been moved to the Morinville Leisure Centre, 25126 Secondary Highway 642, AB effective immediately. 

A call centre line has been established for evacuees – 587-200-3068. Information can be found on the Emergency Information webpage.

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Update #13: Expanded Evacuation Zone, 6:00PM May 6, 2025

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Update #12: Evacuation Order, 2:30PM May 6, 2025

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Update 11: Resident Information Centre, 12:00PM May 6, 2025

An Information Centre has been set up at Pembina Place (4944 53 Street, Redwater, AB) for any residents impacted by the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area fire to ask questions and get the information and support they need. The centre will be open today from 12 to 8 p.m.

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Update 10: Resident contact information form, 10:45AM May 6, 2025

High fire activity is expected today, due to winds. Crews are working directly to extinguish fire as well as patrolling for hot spots and preparing plans in case of evacuation. Residents may see fire crews driving in the area and observing conditions. This is part of regular fire operations. Residents are asked to ensure all gates are unlocked to allow crews to access fields and treed areas.

Emergency crews will also be conducting air drops of retardant materials, so residents in the area may see airplanes overhead. This is a precautionary measure to reinforce fire guards.

The evacuation alert remains in place and residents are urged to be prepared to evacuate on short notice should conditions change rapidly. Residents in the evacuation alert zone are asked to fill out the resident contact information form to ensure they can be contacted with critical updates. The evacuation alert area includes areas south of Township Road 580 to the North Saskatchewan River and east of Range Road 212 to the North Saskatchewan River.

A general information line has been set up for residents at 587-200-3068.

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Update 9: Evacuation Alert Update, 11:10PM May 5, 2025

If a mandatory evacuation order is issued you will have ONE hour to evacuate. No evacuation is required at this time.

There is a wildfire burning near the Redwater Provincial Rec Area.

This alert is in effect for everyone located on Range Road 211 East to Range Road 203 and between Township Road 580 South to Township Road 573.

Action to take:

• For details on preparing for wildfires and evacuations, visit www.alberta.ca/beprepared
• Everyone in the impacted area must prepare for a possible evacuation
• Fuel your vehicles, gather important documents, medication, and prepare to be away from home for at least 3 days
• NO evacuation is required at this time

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Update 8: Resident Contact Form, 8:00PM May 5, 2025

The Redwater Provincial Recreation Area fire has shown minimal growth in size and a fireguard was completed to surround the fire. It is normal to see changes in the size, direction and appearance of fire and smoke throughout the day as weather conditions change. 

Residents are urged to remain alert to all updates on the Sturgeon County website and the Alberta Emergency Alert app and be prepared to evacuate on short notice.

A dedicated page with information for residents affected by the active wildfire has been added to the Sturgeon County website: sturgeoncounty.ca/emergency/. This page will be updated regularly with information about the active wildfire situation.

Residents of the area impacted by the wildfire who have not been contacted by emergency responders are urged to complete the contact form to ensure they can be contacted with critical updates.

If an evacuation order is issued, an Alberta Emergency Alert will be issued, emergency services will go door-to-door to inform affected residents and updates on the evacuation status will be provided on the Sturgeon County website. 

In the event of an evacuation order, residents are encouraged to consider the following:

• Leave the area immediately. Leaving promptly helps emergency crews keep the roads clear of congestion and gives them room to do their job. Evacuation orders are issued when you must leave the area for your own safety.
• Grab your emergency kit and take it with you.
• Gather important documents, medication, food, fresh water and other supplies to be away from home for 72 hours (emergency kit checklist).
• Follow instructions on where to go. Follow evacuation routes specified by emergency workers. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with your headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.
• Follow us on Facebook and/or X for news and updates.

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Update 7: Evacuation alert continues, 4:00PM May 5, 2025

The evacuation alert remains unchanged as of 4PM. Fire crews are working to contain the current burn area and continue to monitor the weather and any changes in wind direction; if conditions change, firefighting efforts will be adjusted accordingly. Because changing conditions have the potential to change evacuation needs rapidly, residents are urged to remain alert to all updates on the Sturgeon County website and the Alberta Emergency Alert app and be prepared to evacuate on short notice. In the event of an evacuation order, residents are encouraged to consider the following:

• Leave the area immediately. Leaving promptly helps emergency crews keep the roads clear of congestion and gives them room to do their job. Evacuation orders are issued when you must leave the area for your own safety.
• Grab your emergency kit and take it with you.
• Gather important documents, medication, food, fresh water and other supplies to be away from home for 72 hours (Emergency kit checklist – Open Government).
• Follow instructions on where to go. Follow evacuation routes specified by emergency workers. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with your headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.

We continue to urge all residents and visitors to avoid the area and to follow the instructions of emergency responders. 

Residents are encouraged to take action to prevent and prepare for wildfires. This includes making simple choices when maintaining property, landscaping yards, or undertaking renovation or construction projects. Information on how to make properties FireSmart is available on the Sturgeon County website. 

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Update 6: Fire Suppression Continues, 11:45AM May 5, 2025 

Fire crews continue to work diligently to contain the fire in the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area. The cause of the fire is confirmed to be an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that caught fire in a remote part of the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area, potentially due to an electrical or mechanical failure.

The fire is currently 70 per cent contained, with crews planning for a projected wind shift in the evening and into tomorrow morning.  

The evacuation alert area remains the same and includes areas south of Township Road 580 to the North Saskatchewan River and east of Range Road 212 to the North Saskatchewan River.

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Update 5: 70% Containment, 8:00PM May 4, 2025 

The Redwater Provincial Recreation Area Fire is now 70% contained around its borders, thanks to the diligent efforts of the fire crews on site. While the fire is still considered to be out of control, there has not been any significant growth. 

The next update is the morning of Monday, May 5, 2025.

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Update 4: Fire Ban, 5:00PM May 4, 2025 

A total fire ban has been issued for Sturgeon County, Redwater, Legal and Bon Accord, due to ongoing dry conditions and wind, and the current active fire situation at Redwater Provincial Recreation Area. The fire ban is effective as of 17:10. 

No outdoor fires are allowed until further notice, including:  

• Recreational firepits  
• Open fires  
• Burn barrels  
• Incinerators  
• Fireworks  
• Chimineas  
• Solid fuel (charcoal, pellets, etc.) barbecues  

Residents in the area can still use cooking and recreational appliances – such as fire tables, barbecues, smokers and patio heaters – that can be turned on or off using a switch or valve (propane, natural gas or electric).  

All outdoor fires currently burning, whether set under the authority of a fire permit or not, must be extinguished. No new burn permits or fireworks permits will be issued. All current fire permits and fireworks permits are suspended until further notice.  

This ban also includes a ban on the use of ATVs or OHVs.  

Sturgeon County urges the public to use extreme caution when working or driving in grassy areas, to be mindful of hot exhaust, and to keep vehicles clean and free of debris as smoldering debris can start fires.  

Residents are encouraged to take action to prevent wildfires and prepare for wildfires. This includes making simple choices when maintaining your property, landscaping your yard, or undertaking a renovation or construction project. View our tips to make your home FireSmart.  

Always know your location and dial 911 in an emergency.  

For updates, visit sturgeoncounty.ca/fire-bans and albertafirebans.ca. If you have questions, email Protective Services or call 780-939-8400. 

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Update 3: Affected Area Map, 1:30PM May 4, 2025

Emergency personnel are actively assessing conditions and gathering information to keep residents informed with timely updates. Ground and air crews are on scene conducting fire suppression efforts, including three aerial firefighting helicopters. The provincial wildfire resource branch has also been dispatched to support wildland firefighting efforts.

The affected areas include RR205 to Victoria Trail; Township 574 to RR205; and Township 574 to RR203. The evacuation alert area has now been expanded—south of Township 580 to the North Saskatchewan River and east of RR212 to the North Saskatchewan River—this expansion is to prepare and inform residents in the alert area that if the weather changes, such as wind, they may be impacted.

We urge all residents to avoid the area and to follow the instructions of emergency responders. Future updates will be offered on a regular frequency, expected going forward to include mid-morning, afternoon and evening schedules.

If an evacuation order is issued, do the following:

• Leave the area immediately. Leaving promptly helps emergency crews keep the roads clear of congestion and gives them room to do their job. Evacuation orders are issued when you must leave the area for your own safety.
• Grab your emergency kit and take it with you.
• Gather important documents, medication, food, fresh water, and another other supplies to be away from home for 72 hours (Emergency kit checklist – Open Government).
• Follow instructions on where to go. Follow evacuation routes specified by emergency workers. Do not take shortcuts.
• Drive carefully with your headlights on. Make way for pedestrians and emergency vehicles.
• Follow us on Facebook and/or X for news and updates. 

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Update: Affected Area Map, 1:30AM May 4, 2025

Update: Redwater Recreation Area Update, 12:30AM May 4, 2025

Sturgeon County has declared a state of local emergency as crews continue to battle an out-of-control fire in the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area. The Sturgeon Regional Emergency Management Partnership (SREMP) emergency coordination centre has been activated. The affected areas include RR205 to Victoria Trail; Township 574 to RR205; and Township 574 to RR203. The estimated size of the fire is 110 hectares. The fire has not crossed the North Saskatchewan River at the time of this update. 

One home has been lost in the fire. A number of animals, including a herd of cattle, were relocated. Due to the quick work of emergency crews on scene, there have been no casualties reported as of the time of this update. The main goals for emergency response are protection of property in the area and containment of the fire. 

Residents are asked to stay away from the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area to give emergency crews space to work. All area roads are open to local traffic only.  

We currently do not need volunteers or support from outside agencies, and are not collecting donations at this time. 

Residents in the area continue to be on evacuation notice until further notice. Stay tuned to SturgeonCounty.ca for the latest information. 

Further media updates will be added as new information is made available.  

Evacuation notice issued for Redwater area 

A large wildfire is currently burning in the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area. Multiple units are on scene responding to the incident. All residents and visitors are being asked to avoid the area to allow Sturgeon County’s fire services to respond.  

Sturgeon County is currently under a Fire Restriction and all residents are strongly encouraged to take precautionary measures for fire prevention. 

Media inquiries: 

Corporate Communications 
Online Media Request form 
Corporatecomms@sturgeoncounty.ca 
780-939-8404 

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Fire near Redwater Recreation Area, 10:30PM May 3, 2025

There is a wildfire at Range Road 205 and Victoria Trail near Redwater Provincial Recreation Area in Sturgeon County. Residents are being asked to stand by and be prepared to evacuate.

Sturgeon County is currently under a Fire Restriction and all residents are strongly encouraged to take precautionary measures for fire prevention.

Please stay tuned to our social media channels and our website at sturgeoncounty.ca as the situation develops.