The wet weather has changed everything in the Calgary Forest Area (CRA).
The average wildfire danger across CFA is now low, with some very high to extreme pockets remaining in the far south.
"Several large storm systems moved through the northern and central portions of the CFA over the past 24 hours and in most cases were associated with substantial rainfall," states Anastasia Drummond, CFA wildfire information officer in her latest update. "This moisture is welcomed, but after such an extended period of hot and dry conditions, the larger fuels in the forest will require additional precipitation before the longer-term wildfire danger is significantly reduced."
The Burstall Lake Wildfire, located in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park approximately 10 km south of the Spray Lakes Reservoir, is now under control after being listed as being held before the rain hit. An investigation has confirmed it was caused by lightning.
Eight wildland firefighters and one helicopter for both crew movement and bucketing are on scene, a drastic drop from the crew of 20 there yesterday.
The Smith Dorrien Trail (hwy. 742) remains open, but crews, aircraft and smoke may be visible. Local trail closures are in effect in the immediate vicinity. Please check the Alberta Parks website for current information on impacted trails.
The Fallentimber Wildfire, 25 km west of Water Valley, remains under control and has 20 wildland firefighters and a helicopter on scene.
Effective immediately, the closures related to the fire have been lifted. The Stud Creek Road (Burnt Timber Road) is open and trails in the area are accessible.
Another small fire, 6.5 km south of Chain Lakes is under control. It's mapped at 0.1 hectares.
The substantial lightning over the past 24 hours remains a cause for concern. While most involved heavy precipitation, there is the potential for new wildfires to start.
If you spot a fire, report it to 310-FIRE.
Since January 1, the CFA has responded to 69 wildfires which have burned 63.38 hectares.
A fire ban remains in effect in the Calgary Forest Area, Town of Cochrane, and Rocky View County.
A fire ban remains in place for the southern portion of the Forest Protection Area. High Level, Grande Prairie, Edson, and parts of the Whitecourt Forest Area have moved to a fire restriction. Peace River is now under a fire advisory, and the fire ban in Fort McMurray has been lifted.
For up-to-date information on fire danger, visit alberta.ca/fire-bans.