Alberta Declares State of Emergency as Wildfires Burn Over 100,000 Hectares

April 23, 2025: The Government of Alberta has declared a province-wide state of emergency as wildfires continue escalating, burning over 100,000 hectares across multiple regions. High temperatures, strong winds, and dry conditions have triggered rapid fire spread, prompting mass evacuations and disruption to critical infrastructure.

More than 30 active wildfires are classified as out of control, with the largest blazes concentrated in northern and central Alberta, including areas surrounding Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie, and High Level. The province has activated emergency management protocols and requested additional federal and military support.

Over 15,000 residents have been issued evacuation orders, and temporary shelters have been set up in major urban centers. Schools in affected regions have closed, and health services have been redirected to accommodate displaced residents. Fire officials have warned that continued hot, dry weather and shifting wind patterns may exacerbate conditions in the coming days.

The Alberta Emergency Management Agency has prioritized protecting critical energy infrastructure, rail corridors, and water systems. Several oil sands facilities have initiated partial shutdowns or implemented fire mitigation protocols. Power outages have been reported in multiple communities due to damaged transmission lines.

Air quality across western Canada has deteriorated, with Environment Canada issuing advisories in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and parts of British Columbia. Health authorities have advised residents to stay indoors, reduce physical exertion, and use air filtration systems where available.

Provincial leaders emphasized the scale of the emergency and the need for national coordination. The deployment of the Canadian Armed Forces is expected to include aerial surveillance, evacuation logistics, and reinforcement of firefighting efforts on the ground.

Alberta Wildfire officials are urging residents in high-risk zones to prepare for rapid evacuation and monitor official alerts. Additional firefighting crews from British Columbia, Ontario, and the United States are being deployed under mutual aid agreements. The provincial budget has been reallocated to prioritize wildfire response and post-crisis recovery planning.