COLD LAKE – A fast-growing wildfire ignited late in the morning on July 9 within the Cold Lake Air Weapons Range (CLAWR), limiting access to the Primrose Lake area as emergency crews work to contain the blaze.
Classified as LWF132, the wildfire is now burning out-of-control and has grown to an estimated 1,210 hectares, according to Alberta Wildfire. It was spotted roughly 2 km west of Primrose Lake, and fire crews have been refilling water buckets from Marie Lake as suppression efforts continue.
“There are 40 wildland firefighters from Alberta Wildfire responding to wildfire LWF132. They are supported by four helicopters who are dropping water on the fire with their buckets. Airtankers are also dropping retardant and water to slow the spread of the fire,” said Josee St-Onge, provincial information officer with Alberta Wildfire.
While there is currently no threat to nearby communities, the situation remains volatile.
“Strong winds are creating challenging conditions for firefighters, but fire activity has been reduced today thanks to cloud cover and some light rain. Windy conditions are expected to continue tonight and tomorrow (Friday), which could lead to an increase in fire activity,” St-Onge said, on Thursday.
The wildfire danger in the Lac La Biche Forest Area remains very high, with hot, dry, and gusty conditions forecasted. Alberta Wildfire continues to provide updates to Cold Lake First Nations and other affected partners. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
Alongside LWF132, two other wildfires, LWF090 near Conklin and LWF131 northwest of Wandering River, are also classified as out of control. In total, 10 wildfires are currently active in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, with three considered out of control. Since the start of 2025, over 134 wildfires have burned approximately 70,427 hectares in the region, according to Alberta Wildfire.
Authorities are urging everyone in the area to exercise extreme caution and follow all local advisories as crews continue to battle the flames.
