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last update: 997 hectares

Wildfire in Clearwater County now ‘being held’

May 19, 2026 | 6:36 AM

Officials say that a significantly-sized wildfire in the West Country is now classified as ‘being held.’

Alberta Forestry and Parks noted in a release on Monday that fire RWF036 is down to 997 hectares after a more accurate assessment.

It is located about 5 km northeast of the James-Wilson Provincial Recreation Area; 30 km northwest of the town of Sundre; and 20 km southwest of Burnstick Lake.

The cause remains under investigation.

“Firefighters and night-vision equipped helicopters worked overnight on hotspots. Today (Monday), crews with the help of helicopters and heavy equipment will work on extinguishing hotspots along the north perimeter as well as hotspots on the interior of the fire. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities; however, there is currently no risk to nearby communities,” they said.

“This wildfire is within Clearwater County boundaries, this municipality has issued an evacuation alert for the surrounding area to support public safety and allow firefighting operations to continue safely. The Mountain View County boundary is approximately 7 km east of the wildfire. Residents of Mountain View County are encouraged to monitor the County’s website for the latest updates.”

Due to the proximity of this wildfire to Highway 40 (Forestry Trunk Road), portions of the highway remain closed. Visit 511Alberta for current road closure information and updates.

Be advised that aircraft may be scooping water from nearby water sources, including lakes and rivers. Avoid the area and give aircraft and firefighters space to operate safely.

Since January 1, 2026, the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has responded to 37 wildfires. 

For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.