Recent heavy rains have helped reduce wildfire danger across much of central and southern Alberta, though northern areas remain a significant concern heading into the Canada Day long weekend.

More than 100 millimetres of rain fell over several days, with the heaviest amounts reported along the foothills and eastern regions, according to Environment Canada.

Alberta Wildfire spokesperson Josée St-Onge said the moisture has been a welcome relief, especially for central Alberta, where crews are making progress on existing fires. However, St-Onge warned that major wildfires continue to burn in the far north, including the Red Earth East complex—10 fires near Red Earth Creek and Loon River

First Nation—spanning roughly 78,000 hectares. Since March 1, more than 670,000 hectares have burned across the province.

As of Monday, 54 wildfires remained active; 27 are classified as out of control, while four are considered held.

With dry conditions persisting in the north and a forecast of warmer weather later in the week, officials remain cautious. Fire danger ratings in much of central and southern

Alberta range from low to moderate, but advisories are still in effect for areas including Edmonton.

St-Onge urged residents to be vigilant over the Canada Day weekend, noting a spike in human-caused fires typically follows holidays. She also reminded the public that fireworks are banned on Crown land without written permission from a forest officer.

With dry conditions persisting in the north and a forecast of warmer weather later in the week, officials remain cautious. Fire danger ratings in much of central and southern Alberta range from low to moderate, but advisories are still in effect for areas including Edmonton.

St-Onge urged residents to be vigilant over the Canada Day weekend, noting a spike in human-caused fires typically follows holidays. She also reminded the public that fireworks are banned on Crown land without written permission from a forest officer.

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