Yellowhead Complex Fire Updates

June 5, 2025 @ 9:30 a.m.

Current Situation:

The evacuation alert has been lifted for Robb, Mercoal and area. The EWF-030 (Mercoal Creek) wildfire is now classified as Being Held. This means it is not expected to grow beyond its existing boundaries, given current weather conditions and resources.

Residents of Peers and area remain under an Evacuation Alert. The EWF-036 (January Creek) wildfire remains classified as Out of Control. Be prepared to evacuate on short notice with pets, essential medications and documents.

Moving forward, we will no longer be issuing twice-daily updates unless conditions change. Visit Alberta Wildfire for the most up-to-date information: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area. Download the Alberta Emergency Alert app for lifesaving notifications.

June 4, 2025 @ 4:30 p.m.

Current Situation:

Residents of Robb, Mercoal and Peers remain under an Evacuation Alert.

Be prepared to evacuate on short notice with pets, essential medications and documents.
Keep vehicles fuelled up.
Connect with neighbours who may need assistance evacuating or receiving alerts.
Download the Alberta Emergency Alert app for lifesaving notifications

There is no change to the wildfire status for the EWF-030 (Mercoal Creek) and EWF-036 (January Creek) fires; both are still classified as Out of Control. A status change will not occur until firefighters are confident it’s being held. Crews are working hard to contain both fires and we thank them for their tireless efforts.

Wildfire updates (including size): https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Fire crews are still active. Be aware of crews and equipment in active fire areas. Never fly a drone around a wildfire – doing so puts firefighting pilots at extreme risk and delays suppression efforts.

In treed areas, use caution as they may have been damaged by wildfire. Even if the tree doesn’t appear burned, the root system may be compromised, making them unstable.

Information for Robb, Mercoal and Peers:

View the full re-entry guide at yhcounty.ca
Alberta Wildfire and Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) will be at the Robb Multiplex today from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. with information on available supports, wildfire details and FireSmart properties.
The Robb transfer station is open for regular hours. Staff are working to have the Peers transfer station open from 2-6pm today, stay tuned for details. Used oil, electronics and household hazardous waste drop off will not be available.
Our call centre is available from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. today: 1-833-334-4630

Update

June 4, 2025 @ 10:00 a.m.

Current Situation:

Residents of Robb, Mercoal and Peers remain under an Evacuation Alert. Be prepared to evacuate on short notice with pets, essential medications and documents. Keep vehicles fuelled up. Connect with neighbours who may need assistance evacuating or receiving alerts. Our communities are stronger when we work together.

Fire crews from Alberta Wildfire, Yellowhead County and municipalities across the province continue their work in fighting the wildfires EWF-030 (Mercoal Creek) and EWF-036 (January Creek), which are both still classified as Out of Control. This means that the wildfire has the potential to grow. A status change will not occur until firefighters are confident it’s being held.

Wildfire updates (including size): https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Fire crews are still active, so equipment may be moved or repositioned by crews as needed—please don’t move it. Crews will handle it safely.

Do not fly drones—they pose an extreme danger to firefighting pilots and fines may apply.

Use extreme caution in burned areas – trees may fall unexpectedly, especially if roots have been damaged

Information for Robb, Mercoal and Peers:

View the full re-entry guide at yhcounty.ca
If you have questions around compensation, reach out to your insurance company
Alberta Wildfire and Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) will be at the Robb Multiplex today from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. with information on available supports, wildfire details and FireSmart properties.
The Robb transfer station is open for regular hours. Staff are working to have the Peers transfer station open from 2-6pm today, stay tuned for details. Used oil, electronics and household hazardous waste drop off will not be available.

Our call centre is available from 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. today: 1-833-334-4630

Update

June 3, 2025 @ 6:00 p.m.

Wildfires EWF-030 (Mercoal Creek) and EWF-036 (January Creek) are still classified as Out of Control, which means that the wildfire has the potential to grow. A status change will not occur until firefighters are confident it’s being held.

Residents of Robb, Mercoal and Peers were able to return home today, but an Evacuation Alert remains for these communities. Be prepared to evacuate on short notice with pets, essential medications and documents. Keep vehicles fuelled up as well.

Fire crews are still actively working on fire suppression in your communities:

You may notice equipment being repositioned based on operational needs. Please don’t move it – crews will handle moving equipment safely.
Don’t fly drones in the areas – they put pilots at risk and fines may apply.

Re-entry Information

View the re-entry guide at yhcounty.ca
The reception centre at the Edson Holiday Inn is now closed.
When in treed areas – be careful. Trees may be unstable and fall if damaged by fire, especially their roots.
Natural gas was turned off during evacuations. In Robb, call Yellowhead Gas (780-723-4214) if you need help relighting your appliances. In Peers, ATCO will be going door-to-door to restore service, leaving notices if you aren’t home. Call 310-5678 for additional assistance.
Electricity was turned off in Peers for several hours. You may consider throwing out food in your fridge.
- Garbage can be taken to the Bear Lake or Pinedale transfer sites, or to bins at the Peers Multiplex.
Alberta Wildfire and Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) will be at the Robb Multiplex tomorrow from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. with information on available supports, wildfire details and FireSmart properties.
Our call centre has closed for the night but will be available at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow: 1-833-334-4630.

Updates

We will no longer be doing live updates. Please stay tuned to our website and social media.

Wildfire updates (including size): https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

A message from Mayor Wade Williams:

“I would like to thank Alberta Wildfire, Alberta Emergency Management Agency, Yellowhead County fire crews, CN, our municipal partners that came to help, our staff for switching from regular duties and shifts to a 24 hour a day operation in the Emergency Coordination Centre, as well as our residents for their cooperation and resiliency. I am happy to see that re-entry of Robb, Mercoal, and Peers went well today and everyone is settling back in.“

Yellowhead Complex Fire Update

June 3, 2025 @ 12:30 p.m.

The evacuation orders for Peers, Robb and Mercoal have been lifted. They remain under an evacuation alert. Be prepared to evacuate on short notice as the fire is still burning.

Be sure to review our re-entry guide for full details on returning home: yhcounty.ca

The reception centre at the Edson Holiday Inn will close at 2:00 p.m. today.

Our call centre will be open until 6:00 p.m. tonight, reopening tomorrow at 8:00 a.m.

Join FCSS and Alberta Wildfire

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) and Alberta Wildfire will be available at the Peers Multiplex on Tuesday June 3 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm, and at the Robb Multiplex on Wednesday June 4 from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. Join us for information on available support, wildfire information and FireSmart.

Yellowhead Complex Wildfire Update

June 3, 2025 @ 10:30 a.m.

Fire crews continue to work diligently on the wildfires.

Evacuated residents of Robb, Mercoal and Peers can return home at 12:00 noon today (June 3).

An evacuation alert will remain for all communities. The fires continue to burn, so stay vigilant and be prepared to evacuate on short notice.

Re-entry Information

What to know:

View the re-entry guide at yhcounty.ca
Use extra caution around treed areas. Burned roots can cause them to be very unstable and fall.
If you require transportation home call 1-833-334-4630
You may see fire hoses, sprinklers, and other firefighting equipment being removed or relocated in the coming days. Crews are continuing active suppression efforts in the area, and equipment will be repositioned based on operational needs. Please do not move any firefighting equipment—crews will handle this safely.
Don’t fly drones in the area. Flying a drone near or over a wildfire endangers wildfire pilots, forcing them to ground aircraft, causing delays in firefighting operations. You could face a hefty fine for putting aircraft and people at risk. Please give our firefighters the space they need to do their jobs safely.
Call our Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-833-334-4630 for specific questions

Robb:

Natural gas has been restored however you may need to relight your appliances. If you need help, call Yellowhead Gas at 780-723-4214.

Peers:

You’ll notice a large presence of fire crews as they continue working on fire suppression and managing damaged and burned trees. This may cause smoke.
Natural gas was turned off. ATCO will be going door to door tomorrow to restore natural gas service. In the event you are not at home when we visit, information will be left at your door. If you need additional assistance, please call ATCO at 310-5678.
Electricity was turned off for several hours. You may consider throwing out food in your fridge.

Updates

We will no longer be doing live updates. Please stay tuned to our website and social media.

Wildfire updates (including size): https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

June 2, 2025 @ 6:00 p.m.

Current Situation:

Another day of cooler temperatures and hard work from fire crews helped minimize wildfire growth and spread.

Highway 32 has been reopened. Crews are working on and alongside the roads as they continue fire mitigation efforts, so please drive with care, especially in smoky conditions.

Evacuation Information:

Robb, Mercoal and Peers remain under evacuation. Residents will be able to return at 12:00 noon tomorrow (Tuesday, June 3).
Re-entry Booklet

As you prepare to return home tomorrow, please take a moment to review our re-entry guide at yhcounty.ca. It has essential information on:

Restoring your natural gas service
The electricity disruption in Peers (you may consider discarding food in your fridge)
Staying safe around unstable trees and ash pits
And much more

Transportation will be available for residents who need a ride back to their communities. Please call 1-833-334-4630 to register so we can coordinate with you.

When you return home, you’ll notice firefighting apparatus like hoses and sprinklers in your community. Please do not move these. Fire crews will remove or relocate them over the next several days.

Evacuated residents can call our Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-833-334-4630 for specific questions.

Updates

Wildfire updates (including size): https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Situation Update

Yellowhead Complex Wildfire

June 2, 2025 @10:00 a.m.

Current Situation

Both wildfires (near Peers and Robb/Mercoal) saw minimal to no growth yesterday. We are grateful to the firefighters from Alberta Wildfire, Yellowhead County and other departments from across the province for their tireless efforts to keep our communities safe.

Highway 32 has been reopened. Crews are working on and alongside the roads as they continue fire mitigation efforts, so please drive with care, especially in smoky conditions.

Yellowhead County fire crews continue to work with Alberta Wildfire. You will notice equipment and personnel around the fire areas – please drive with caution around crews.

Unfortunately, we have received reports of equipment used for fire suppression being stolen. If you witness theft or notice suspicious activity, call 911 immediately to report.

Evacuation Information

Robb, Mercoal and Peers remain under evacuation. Residents will be able to return at 12:00 noon tomorrow (Tuesday, June 3).

Gas co-ops are working diligently to restore service for you to return. As fire crews have equipment placed throughout the communities, they are working to move hoses and sprinklers to accommodate your re-entry. It will take several days to completely remove all their apparatus so you will notice it remains when you come home.

Transportation will be available for residents who need a ride back to their communities. Please call 1-833-334-4630 to register so we can coordinate with you.

We will be issuing a re-entry booklet today with specific guidance for residents. Please stay tuned to our website and social media. We want to ensure you are aware of the safety considerations with returning to your home communities.

Evacuated residents can call our Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-833-334-4630 for specific questions.

Updates

A live update is scheduled on our YouTube channel 11:00 a.m. today: https://www.youtube.com/@yellowheadcounty570 and will be posted on our website.

AB Wildfire report updates for Yellowhead County are available at:

https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Wildfire updates (including size): https://www.alberta.ca/wildfires-of-note

Wildfire EWF030 & EWF036

Yellowhead Complex Fire (previously named EWF 030 & EWF 036 – Robb, Mercoal, Peers)

June 1, 2025

7:00 p.m.

Current Situation

The cooler temperatures and recent precipitation have been helpful in the firefighting response.

Yellowhead County fire crews continue to work with Alberta Wildfire. You will notice equipment and personnel around the fire areas – please drive with caution around crews.

Evacuation Information

We anticipate that residents of Robb, Peers and Mercoal will be able to return home on Tuesday, June 3 at 12:00 noon. For your safety and the safety of first responders, please stay out of the area until the evacuation order has been lifted, as firefighting is still actively underway.
- Natural gas providers will begin work on resuming service to Robb and Peers, and fire crews will be disassembling much of the firefighting equipment, but some will remain throughout the communities. Thank you for your patience as we complete these tasks that are critical to re-entry.

Updates

Live updates are scheduled for 11:00 AM on Monday, June 2, 2025: www.yhcounty.ca or www.youtube.com/@yellowheadcounty570

AB Wildfire report updates are available at:

https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Situation Update

Wildfire EWF030 & EWF036

EWF 030 & EWF 036 (Robb, Mercoal, Peers)

June 1, 2025 10:00 a.m.

Current Situation

Despite the precipitation we received last night, fire activity continues, and the wildfire risk remains as extreme. Fire activity can increase with warm temperatures and wind.

Yellowhead County fire crews continue to work with Alberta Wildfire. You will notice equipment and personnel around the fire areas – please drive with caution around crews.

Evacuation Information

Robb, Mercoal and Peers remain under evacuation.

We are working to return residents home as soon as possible, however due to fire activity we do not have a date for return at this time. Evacuated residents can call our Emergency Coordination Centre at 1-833-334-4630 for specific questions.

Evacuees are encouraged to register even if they don’t require any immediate services. Check in at the Reception Centre at the Holiday Inn Express in Edson or call 1-833-334-4630 or use the online form at www.yhcounty.ca. Evacuated residents are encouraged to call their insurance provider for assistance in evacuation coverage.

Updates

Live updates are scheduled for 11:00 AM and 7:00 p.m. today: www.yhcounty.ca or www.youtube.com/@yellowheadcounty570

Alberta Wildfire regularly provides updates on wildfires (including size) here: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfires-of-note

EWF 030 & EWF 036 (Robb, Mercoal, Peers)
May 31, 2025 9:45 AM

Yellowhead County fire crews continue to work with Alberta Wildfire on this incident. AB wildfire is monitoring the wildfires, and the most recent AB Wildfire report is available at:
https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

YCFD firefighters are actively assessing and setting up sprinkler protection systems on properties in Robb and Peers. Sprinkler protection is completed in Mercoal.

There continues to be an evacuation order for the communities of Robb, Mercoal and Peers. Evacuees are encouraged to register even if they don’t require any services at this time. Evacuees can check in at the Reception Centre at the Holiday Inn Express in Edson or call 1-833-334-4630 or use the online form at www.yhcounty.ca. Evacuated residents are encouraged to call their insurance provider for assistance in evacuation coverage.

Peace officers, RCMP, and protective services will be patrolling in the communities during the evacuation.

Power in Peers was shut off yesterday (May 30) to assist with YCFD firefighters and is scheduled to be restored today.

A Facebook live update is scheduled for 11:00 AM this morning.

Evacuees and anyone in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630 for further information. If you need emergency assistance, call 9-1-1.

EWF 030 & EWF 036

May 30, 2025 11:59PM

Both the communities of Robb & Mercoal and Peers have been evacuated. Yellowhead County firefighters are working with Alberta Wildfire for the fires impacting both these communities. Yellowhead County firefighters are setting up sprinkler protection systems in Mercoal and Robb and Peers.

Emergency crews are on scene overnight and are in close contact with Alberta Wildfire who are continuing to monitor the fire overnight.

Gather important documents, medication, pets and supplies to be away for 3 days. Ensure you have sufficient fuel in your vehicle.

Evacuees can check in at the Reception Centre at the Holiday Inn Express in Edson at 4520 2 Ave (west bound lane in Edson.)

Evacuees are encouraged to register even if they don’t require any services at this time.

Register at 1-833-334-4630 to register or use the online form which can be found at yhcounty.ca or the Yellowhead County Facebook page.

Evacuees can call 1-833-334-4630 for further information. The phone lines will remain open overnight. More information is posted at yhcounty.ca and the County’s Facebook page.

If you need emergency assistance, call 9-1-1.

A video update from Yellowhead County Deputy Mayor Brigitte Lemieux and CAO Luc Mercier is posted on the Yellowhead County Facebook page.

Robb & Mercoal:

Robb Evacuation Route:

• The evacuation route is north on Highway 47 to Highway 16.

• If you need transportation assistance, call 1-833-334-4630.

This report is from Alberta Wildfire.

AB Wildfire Update from May 30, 9:45:

• EWF030 is located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire has escaped the perimeter and is now classified as out of control and estimated to be 400 ha and growing.

• Due to hot temperatures and windy conditions, the wildfire has become active and grew today. Smoke is visible. Firefighters continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of water trucks.

Peers:

The wildfire remains out of control and is pushing towards the northwest.

The evacuation zone for Peers is the Hamlet of Peers north to the McLeod River, west to 1 mile west of Highway 32, south to Hwy 16 and east to just before Range Road 131. More details and a map of the evacuation zone can be found at Alberta Emergency Alert https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx

Peers Evacuation Route:

The evacuation route is north on Highway 32 and west on Highway 748.

AB Wildfire Update from May 30, 9:45:

• EWF036 is located 0.5 km south of the Peers transfer station and 1.5 km to the railroad south of Peers. The wildfire is now estimated to be 1,400 ha in size and anticipate to grow again tomorrow. The wildfire remains classified as out of control and under investigation.

• Alberta Wildfire firefighters, heavy equipment, helicopters and airtankers alongside Yellowhead County Fire Department continue responding to this wildfire. Firefighters will work late into the evening with helicopters. Heavy equipment will continue building containment line surrounding the new perimeter of where the fire escaped.

• Crossover conditions are not expected tomorrow which will help keep fire behavior down, however winds gusting to 40 km/h could move the wildfire again tomorrow.

Photo from Alberta Wildfire: EWF036 experienced variable winds today and the wildfire grew significantly (May 30, 2025 at 8:00 p.m.).

The full wildfire reports are available at:

https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.

Get regular updates:

Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

It is a good practice to always be prepared for a possible evacuation. Gather pet supplies, important documents, medication, food, water, and supplies for at least three days. Make sure you have enough fuel in your vehicle – half a tank is good, a full tank is best. More information can be found at https://yhcounty.ca/living-here/emergency-preparedness/.

May 30, 2025 – 8:17pm – EWF030

This is an Alberta Emergency Alert. Yellowhead County has issued an Evacuation Order for Robb and Mercoal.

Everyone in Mercoal and Robb must evacuate immediately.

Gather important documents, medication, pets and supplies to be away for 3 days. Ensure you have sufficient fuel in your vehicle. If you need transportation assistance, go to the Multiplex or call 1-833-334-4630.

If you need emergency assistance, call 9-1-1,

The evacuation route is north on Highway 47 to Highway 16. The reception centre is Holiday Inn Express in Edson. Visit yhcounty.ca and Alberta Emergency Alert for updates.

Evacuees are encouraged to register even if they don’t require any services at this time. Register at 1-833-334-4630 to register or use the online form https://portal.laserfiche.ca/u7198/forms/evacuationRegistrationForm? The phone lines will remain open overnight.

May 30, 2025 – 7:11pm – EWF036

The Peers area evacuation has been expanded to include 1 mile west of Highway 32 and north to the McLeod River.

This is an Alberta Emergency Alert. Yellowhead County updated its Wildfire Alert.

The wildfire remains out of control and is pushing towards the northwest.

The evacuation order is expanded to include 1 mile west of Highway 32 and north to the McLeod River.

Everyone in the new evacuation zone must evacuate. Gather important documents, medication, pets and supplies to be away for 3 days.

The evacuation route is north on Highway 32 and west on Highway 748. Evacuees can call 1-833-334-4630 for assistance. Call 9-1-1 for emergencies.

The reception centre is Holiday Inn Express in Edson at 4520 2 Ave.
Visit Yellowhead County’s Facebook page and Alberta Emergency Alert for updates.

If you are not in the evacuation area, it is best to be prepared. Evacuation preparedness list at 72hours.ca

Wildfire EWF036 – May 30, 2025 10 AM

The wildfire has grown and is now estimated to be 285 hectares in size. The wildfire remains classified as out of control and under investigation. The Evacuation Order remains in place for residents from Peers and the southeast of Peers to Highway 16.

Firefighters from Alberta Wildfire and Yellowhead County, along with heavy equipment, helicopters, and airtankers, responded to EWF036, situated less than 1 km southeast of Peers on both the east and west sides of Highway 32. Heavy equipment worked throughout the night on establishing containment lines around the wildfire. Yellowhead County Crews will be working with Alberta Wildfire, actively looking for and extinguishing hotspots throughout the day today and are actively assessing and setting up sprinkler protection units on properties.

Currently, Highway 32, south of Peers, remains closed while fire crews work to extinguish the fire.

Expect heavy smoke to be visible in the area today.

Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630 for assistance.

UPDATES FROM AB WILDFIRE

EWF036 near Peers

EWF036 is located less then 1 km southeast of Peers on the east and west side of highway 32. The wildfire is now estimated to be 285 ha in size. The wildfire remains classified as out of control and under investigation.

Alberta Wildfire firefighters, heavy equipment, helicopters and airtankers alongside Yellowhead County Fire Department responded to this wildfire. Firefighters worked late into the evening and heavy helicopters equipped with night vision equipment tanked water through the night.

**Update from Yellowhead County after clarifying with Alberta Wildfire**: The wildfire has been contained at this time but it is still classified as out of control. A wildfire will not move to “being held” status until it is not expected to grow beyond its existing boundaries, given current weather conditions and resources.

The forecast calls for a high of 24C and 20% relative humidity creating crossover conditions. This occurs when the temperature is greater than the relative humidity, making perfect conditions for a wildfire to spread. The winds are anticipated to come from the southwest 15-20 gusting to 40 km/h, any wildfire activity would probably move towards the northeast. Firefighters would expect fire behavior to increase near noon as the temperatures climb and the humidity decreases.

Yellowhead County has issued an evacuation order for Peers and surrounding area.

Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.

Get regular updates:
Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Mercoal Creek Wildfire (EWF030)

EWF030 is located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire is now classified as being held and estimated to be 224 ha. This wildfire was caused by lightning.

Firefighters will continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of water trucks. They’re searching for and extinguishing hotspots which often involves digging deep into the ground and dousing the smoldering fire with water.

Yellowhead County has indicated that there is no evacuation order for the community of Robb or Mercoal at this time; however, having a plan and being prepared is always a good idea. More information can be found on the preparedness website.

Wildfires EWF030 & EWF036 & EWF037
May 29, 2025 11:00 PM

Residents from Peers and southeast of Peers to Highway 16 were evacuated due to the rapid growth of Wildfire EWF036. Yellowhead County firefighters and Peace Officers along with RCMP went door-to-door in the hamlet to help alert residents to the evacuation. Buses were available for residents who were not able to evacuate on their own. Yellowhead County firefighters were on the ground while AB Wildfire sent in air support.

Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630.

UPDATES FROM AB WILDFIRE

EWF036 near Peers
Alberta Wildfire and Yellowhead County firefighters, heavy equipment, helicopters and airtankers are currently responding to EWF036 located less then 1 km southeast of Peers on the east and west side of highway 32. The wildfire is estimated to be 100 ha in size. The wildfire remains classified as out of control and under investigation.
Alberta Wildfire firefighters, heavy equipment, helicopters and airtankers alongside Yellowhead County Fire Department are responding to this wildfire. The wildfire crossed the highway shortly after 4:15 p.m. and was moving very quickly towards the southeast.
Firefighters will work late into the evening and heavy equipment will work through the night building containment lines surrounding the perimeter of the wildfire. They will prioritize the north side to protect the community of Peers and move towards the east and south. Once the wildfire is contained, crews will start searching for and extinguishing hotspots. These hotspots can often times burn deep into the ground and require to be dug out and doused with water.

Mercoal Creek Wildfire (EWF030)
EWF030 is located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire is now classified as being held and estimated to be 224 ha. This wildfire was caused by lightning.
Firefighters will continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of water trucks. They’re searching for and extinguishing hotspots which often involves digging deep into the ground and dousing the smoldering fire with water.

EWF037 near Bear Lake
Alberta Wildfire firefighters and helicopters responded to EWF037 located 1.5 km north of highway 748 and 5 km east of Bear Lake. The wildfire was 1 ha in size and now classified as extinguished.

Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.

Get regular updates:
Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

This is a revised post originally scheduled for 4:00 PM today. REVISED FOR 9:00 PM

[The full AB Wildfire Update for Mercoal Creek Wildfire EWF030 and Peers Wildfire EWF036 can be found at www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area ]

Mercoal Creek Wildfire EWF030

May 29, 2025

Yellowhead County continues to have sprinkler protection in the Hamlet of Robb and Mercoal. This is a precautionary measure for the safety of residents and homes in Robb. This morning, Yellowhead County Fire Department (YCFD) firefighters began working in lower Robb and will continue to the north end of the hamlet to complete sprinkler protection throughout the community.

AS OF 9:15 PM EWF030 (Mercoal Creek Wildfire) the area estimate is 224 ha and the status is Being Held. More information at www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status

Portions of Message from Alberta Wildfire (2:30 PM May 29, 2025):

Firefighters mapped this wildfire more precisely and determined that the size is now approximately 224 ha. The fire was caused by lightning.

The increase in temperatures and wind made firefighting challenging on the west perimeter of the wildfire. Firefighters and helicopters with water buckets were able to contain the spread and no new growth was reported.

Firefighters will continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of heavy equipment and helicopters. They’re searching for and extinguishing hotspots which often involves digging deep into the ground and dousing the smoldering fire with water. Airtankers are available if required.

The full AB Wildfire Update for Mercoal Creek Wildfire EWF030 and Peers Wildfire EWF036 can be found at www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

May 29, 2025 9:30 AM

Robb & Mercoal Sprinkler Protection

Robb residents will continue to see activity in the hamlet today as YCFD firefighters continue to set up preventative Structural Protection sprinkler systems in the community. This is a precautionary measure for the safety of residents and homes in Robb.

This morning, Yellowhead County Fire Department (YCFD) firefighters are currently working in lower Robb and will move to the north end.

YCFD firefighters in the hamlet can assist residents with any questions regarding the Structural Protection Units (SPU) being set up and other preventative measures.

Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment continue to respond to Wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb.

An additional update is scheduled to be posted this morning with information from Alberta Wildfire.

There is no evacuation order for the community at this time; however, having a plan and being prepared is always a good idea. More information can be found at https://yhcounty.ca/living-here/emergency-preparedness/

Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630.

Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.

Get regular updates:

Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

Mercoal Creek Wildfire EWF030
May 28, 2025 5:30 PM

Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment continue to respond to Wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire remains classified as out of control. AB Wildfire firefighters mapped this wildfire more precisely and determined that the size is now approximately 250 ha.

Yesterday saw cooler temperatures and nearly no fire activity. Today, AB Wildfire firefighters are recording 25 C and 22% relative humidity and anticipating the temperature to climb. These cross-over conditions, which means that the temperatures are higher than the relative humidity, create perfect conditions for intense fire behaviour. Winds are forecasted from the southeast 20-25 gusting to 45 km/h, possibly moving any fire activity towards the northwest.

Tomorrow, similar weather conditions are expected with winds from the southwest, possibly moving the wildfire towards the northeast.

AB Wildfire firefighters will continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of heavy equipment and helicopters. They’re searching for and extinguishing hotspots which often involves digging deep into the ground and dousing the smoldering fire with water. Airtankers are available if required.

Yellowhead County Fire Department (YCFD) firefighters have completed setting up Structural Protection Units (SPU) in Mercoal and have moved to Robb to set up sprinklers for buildings in the hamlet. Six four-hundred barrel water tanks have been set up strategically throughout Robb to provide water for the Sprinkler protections systems. Over one kilometre of firehose has been laid down throughout the community to feed the sprinklers. The sprinkler protection system is being set up as a precautionary measure to reduce the threat of wildfire damage to the hamlet.

Robb residents will see continued activity in the hamlet today as YCFD firefighters continue to set up preventative Structural Protection sprinkler systems in the community. This is a precautionary measure for the safety of residents and homes in Robb.

YCFD firefighters in the hamlet can assist residents with any questions regarding the Structural Protection Units (SPU) being set up and other preventative measures.

Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630.

Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.

Get regular updates:
Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

May 28, 2025 10:00 AM

YCFD firefighters in the hamlet can assist residents with any questions regarding the Structural Protection Units (SPU) being set up and other preventative measures.

There are no significant fire behaviour changes overnight reported by AB Wildfire. Yellowhead County is working closely with AB Wildfire to monitor the situation and will share any new updates as we receive them.

A more detailed update regarding fire activity is planned for this afternoon, or if there are any significant changes in fire activity.

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

May 27, 2025 3:00 PM

YCFD firefighters have been setting up Sprinkler Protection Units in Mercoal and will continue to Robb today for sprinkler protection systems preparation in the hamlet.

Yellowhead County is working with Alberta Wildfire to continue to monitor the wildfire and any changes in fire behaviour. Yellowhead County is preparing for potential changes in wildfire activity that could impact Mercoal and Robb.

Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment continue to respond to wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire remains classified as out of control. Firefighters were able to remap the area and determined that the size is now approximately 284 hectares.

Yesterday saw cooler temperatures, however the forecasted weather for the next few days shows an increase in temperature with lower humidity and this could lead to more favourable conditions for wildfire behaviour. Winds are forecasted to come from the west, possibly moving any fire activity towards the east.

Today, AB Wildfire firefighters will continue to contain the wildfire with the assistance of heavy equipment and helicopters. They’ll be searching for and extinguishing hotspots. Airtankers are available if required.

Residents are reminded to be prepared in case of an emergency. Gather pet supplies, important documents, medication, food, water, and supplies for at least three days. Make sure you have enough fuel in your vehicle. Make plans if you need evacuation transportation assistance due to mobility or other transportation needs. More information can be found at yhcounty.ca/prepare.

Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-5630.

Get regular updates:

Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area

May 27, 2025 9:00 AM:

Yesterday’s cooler temperatures and cloud cover helped lower the fire’s intensity yesterday. YCFD firefighters have been setting up Sprinkler Protection Units in the community.

A more detailed update is scheduled for later this morning.

Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-4630.

UPDATE MAY 26, 2025 6:00 PM:

Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment operators continue to respond to wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. Firefighters didn’t see very much fire activity or growth today; however, the wildfire remains classified as out of control and approximately 393 hectares in size.

Cooler temperatures and cloud cover allowed for good firefighting conditions despite the wind. Firefighters and heavy equipment made good progress on the containment lines and airtankers were able to complete their objectives. Yellowhead County Fire Department (YCFD) firefighters began setting up the structural protection units (SPU) to residences on Sunday, May 25 and are completing additional SPU sprinkler systems today and tomorrow morning in Mercoal and will continue to Robb.

Tomorrow, the weather is forecasted for higher temperatures and lower relative humidity, which could create more intense fire behaviour. Firefighters will return in the morning to continue containing the wildfire and fully extinguishing this wildfire as soon as possible. Airtankers are available if required.

Residents are reminded to always be prepared for a possible evacuation. Gather pet supplies, important documents, medication, food, water, and supplies for at least three days. Make sure you have enough fuel in your vehicle. Make plans if you need evacuation transportation assistance due to mobility or other transportation needs. For more details for residents in the affected area, call 1-833-334-5630. More information can be found at yhcounty.ca/prepare. Yellowhead County Peace Officers and YCFD Firefighters will be in the affected area communities overnight.

If you need immediate assistance, call 9-1-1.

Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.

Get regular updates:

Yellowhead County Facebook https://www.facebook.com/yellowheadcounty/

Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area