Wildfire Update (RWF036) – May 22, 1:00 p.m.
Alberta Wildfire continues to make strong progress on RWF036, which remains classified as “Being Held.” This means the fire is not expected to grow beyond its current boundaries given current weather conditions and available resources. The fire is located about 5 km north of James-Wilson Provincial Recreation Area, 30 km west of Sundre, and 20 km southwest of Burnstick Lake, near Highway 40 and Highway 584.
The evacuation alert for the area has been lifted. Clearwater County’s State of Local Emergency (SOLE) has been terminated as of 1:00 PM today, May 22, 2026. While the SOLE is no longer in effect, the wildfire situation is still active and portions of Highway 40 (Forestry Trunk Road) remain closed.
Please continue to SLOW DOWN and obey all road signs along Highway 40 (Forestry Trunk Road) and Highway 584. Some sections remain reduced to 30 km/h while firefighters are working along the roadside. The busiest times are 7:30–9:00 AM and 7:30–8:30 PM.
Wildfire Danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is currently MODERATE. While some areas have received scattered rain and snow, warm daytime temperatures and wind can quickly dry vegetation and increase wildfire risk. Please continue to use caution with any outdoor activities that could start a wildfire.
NOTE:
Currently, HUMAN ACTIVITY is suspected to be the cause of 74% of wildfires in Alberta this year. Always follow local rules and stay vigilant.
