Boundary Wildfire information updates

During the overnight period, cooler temperatures and precipitation resulted in no fire growth.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks will be removing hoses and water pumps today. A remote camera will be installed which will provide real time images of the area. The U.S. fire crew is also removing fire equipment from their side. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are continuing to coordinate efforts and are in constant communication.

The forecast is calling for cooler temperatures and precipitation for the next few days. Fire Managers are confident that there will be no significant fire growth within Waterton Lakes National Park.

As of 10:00 a.m. today, Friday September 14th, 2018, the Bertha Lake Trail, and Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds opened. The Lakeshore Trail beyond Bertha Bay Backcountry Campground remains closed.

As of Saturday, September 15th, 2018 the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks will be returning home. The U.S IMT and Waterton Lakes National Park fire personnel will continue to monitor the fire.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 14% contained, no growth yesterday.
• Parks Canada Resources: One helicopter, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. The Bertha Lake Trail, and Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds are open.

The Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail remains closed to facilitate helicopter operations. The Lakeshore Trail beyond Bertha Bay Backcountry Campground remains closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• The safety of the public, our crews, park infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada’s number one priority.
• Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 1 updates for the Boundary Wildfire: https://inciweb.nwcg.gov/incident/6170/

During the overnight period, cooler temperatures and precipitation resulted in no fire growth.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks will continue extinguishing any hot spots that may be present. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The forecast is looking favourable with cooler temperatures and precipitation in the form of rain with the potential for snow in the coming days. With this trend towards cooler weather and an increase in precipitation, Fire Managers are confident that there will be no significant fire growth within Waterton Lakes National Park.

As of 10 am on Friday September 14, 2018, the Bertha Lake Trail, and Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds will re-open. The Lakeshore Trail beyond Bertha Bay Backcountry Campground will remain closed.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 14% contained, no growth yesterday.
• Parks Canada Resources: one helicopter, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. The Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail remains closed to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

During the overnight period, cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity resulted in no fire growth. At 08:30 this morning, very limited smoke was noted.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks will continue extinguishing any hot spots that may be present. Today’s forecast is calling for cooler temperatures and sustained winds at 20 km/hr, gusting to 35 km/hr. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 14% contained, no growth yesterday.
• Parks Canada Resources: three helicopters, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail. This closure is in effect to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks continued establishing a hose lay on the north side of Boundary Creek running up the south side of Mount Richards. Aerial suppression efforts continued throughout the day with three Canadian helicopters dropping water at strategic targets within the fire zone. These actions have limited further fire growth.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The forecast is calling for cooler weather tomorrow and over the next few days. Similar fire suppression activities that were undertaken today are being planned for tomorrow. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

Important note: As of Wednesday September 12, 2018 there will be one daily update provided by 12 pm (until further notice).

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 14% contained, no growth yesterday.
• Parks Canada Resources: three helicopters, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail. This closure is in effect to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

During the overnight period, wind speed dropped considerably and cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity resulted in no significant fire growth. At 08:30 this morning, smoke and smouldering were noted, but no open flames.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Aerial suppression efforts continued at 08:30, with three Canadian helicopters dropping water at strategic targets within the fire zone. Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks will continue establishing a hose lay on the north side of Boundary Creek and extinguish any hot spots that may be present. Today’s forecast is calling for cooler temperatures and sustained winds at 20 km/hr, gusting to 35 km/hr.

The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 14% contained, no growth yesterday.
• Parks Canada Resources: three helicopters, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail. This closure is in effect to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

Aerial suppression efforts continued throughout the day with three Canadian helicopters dropping water at strategic targets within the fire zone. These actions have limited further fire growth today, despite the windy conditions.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The forecast is calling for cooler weather tomorrow and over the next few days. Smoke generating from the Boundary Valley may be visible to the public in some parts of Waterton Lakes National Park. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 14% contained, no growth today.
• Parks Canada Resources: three helicopters, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail. This closure is in effect to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

Yesterday, working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Waterton Lakes, Banff and Kootenay national parks established a hose lay on the north side of Boundary Creek running up the south side of Mount Richards. Aerial suppression efforts over the past days have been successful in holding the fire. During the overnight period, no significant fire growth occurred. At 08:30 this morning, smoke and smouldering were noted, with some open flame visible.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Aerial suppression efforts continued at 08:30, with three Canadian helicopters dropping water at strategic targets within the fire zone. Today’s forecast is calling for seasonal temperatures and sustained winds at 45 km/hr gusting to 60 km/hr. This may increase fire activity and limit aircraft operations. Smoke generating from the Boundary Valley may be visible to the public in parts of Waterton Lakes National Park. To ensure the safety of fire crew members, they will not be working directly on the fire line today due to the hazard of potential falling dead trees.

The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 13% contained, no growth yesterday.
• Parks Canada Resources: three helicopters, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bison Paddock overlook which includes road access to Horseshoe Trail. This closure is in effect to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Waterton Lakes, Banff and Kootenay national parks have established a hose lay on the north side of Boundary Creek running up the south side of Mount Richards. Aerial suppression efforts continued, with three Canadian helicopters and one U.S. heavy helicopter dropping water at strategic targets in the fire zone. At 08:30 this morning, smoke and smouldering were noted, but no open flame. During the day, moderate winds and cooler temperatures were observed. Helicopter buckets were very effective in minimizing fire activity along the eastern flank.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The forecast is calling for seasonal temperatures and higher winds. This may increase fire activity tomorrow and limit some aircraft operations. Smoke generating from the Boundary Valley may be visible to the public in some parts of Waterton Lakes National Park. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 13% contained, no growth today.
• Parks Canada Resources: three helicopters, three initial attack crews, local incident management team.

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bison Paddock overlook which includes access to Horseshoe Trail. This closure is in effect to facilitate helicopter operations. Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds remain closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

Yesterday, aerial suppression continued until dark. Three Parks Canada helicopters and one U.S. heavy helicopter bucketed water on the east perimeter of the Boundary Wildfire throughout the day. This suppressed fire activity on hot spots and limited further fire growth, despite the windy conditions. During the overnight period, wind speed dropped considerably and cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity led to decreased fire activity. No significant fire growth was observed overnight. At 08:30 this morning, smoke and smouldering were noted, but no open flame.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT) and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers.

The IMT has 32 firefighters assigned to this fire, including 11 from Parks Canada, stationed at Boundary Bay. Pumps, hoses and portable water tanks were delivered by helicopter to the fire this morning. Waterton’s initial attack crew is at Boundary Bay for their briefing with the U.S. IMT. Initial attack crews from Banff and Kootenay are en route, and are expected to be on the fire line by the end of the day. They will be working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. IMT to suppress the wildfire on the north side of Boundary Creek. Hoses and pumps will be set up along firelines, and aircraft will be available to support with water drops. The objective is to extinguish the hot edge of the northeastern perimeter of the fire, if conditions are safe.

The forecast is calling for similar conditions to yesterday (winds, cooler temperatures) with some cloud cover, which may dampen fire activity. Smoke generating from the Boundary Valley will be visible to the public in some parts of Waterton Lakes National Park.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: 12% contained, no anticipated growth today.
• Parks Canada Resources: 3 helicopters, Waterton initial attack crew with additional initial attack crews from Banff and Kootenay arriving today, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds due to the wildfire activity in the area.

Three Parks Canada helicopters and one U.S. heavy helicopter have been bucketing water on the east perimeter of the Boundary Wildfire throughout the day. These actions have suppressed fire activity on hot spots and limited further fire growth today, despite the windy conditions. Observed fire activity included surface fire with isolated torching of groups of trees.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Aerial suppression of the Boundary Wildfire will continue into the evening as conditions allow.

The U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT) met with Parks Canada fire managers in Waterton this morning to discuss fire activity and continuing response. The Deputy Incident Commander of the Northern Rockies IMT is stationed in Waterton Lakes National Park to work closely with Parks Canada Fire Managers. Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication.

The IMT has 21 firefighters assigned to this fire and stationed at Goat Haunt. Once the eastern hot spots are knocked down by heli-bucketing, and it is safe to do so, ground crews will assess the spots and determine future actions. Waterton’s initial attack crew has prepared pumps, hoses and portable water tanks that enable firefighters to draw water from Boundary Creek and suppress the wildfire from the ground. Two Parks Canada initial attack crews (8 firefighters) are travelling to Waterton Lakes National Park tomorrow morning. They will be working on the fire line under the direction of the U.S. IMT to suppress the wildfire on the north side of Boundary Creek.

The forecast is calling for cooler weather tomorrow and over the next few days. Smoke generating from the Boundary Valley will be visible to the public in some parts of Waterton Lakes National Park.

BACKGROUND

U.S. and Canadian fire managers have been responding to the Boundary Wildfire since it was first observed on August 23, 2018. Fire behaviour increased due to dry and windy conditions on September 7, 2018. That afternoon, the wildfire burned across the U.S. – Canada border and into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the wildfire started.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 3 helicopters, initial attack crew, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds due to the wildfire activity in the area.

A brief weather system passed over Waterton Lakes National Park and the Boundary Wildfire early this morning. Precipitation was too minimal to be measured by rain gauges. This rain did not provide any substantial suppression on the wildfire. A reconnaissance flight at 8:00 observed active surface fire at hot spots on the wildfire’s east perimeter.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The weather forecast is calling for high winds, sun and slightly cooler temperatures. This may lead to continued fire activity and smoke today. This morning, two Parks Canada helicopters have been bucketing water on hot spots near the east perimeter of the wildfire with the objective of holding it at an avalanche path in the Boundary valley. Parks Canada has activated a third helicopter, which is inbound.

The U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team met with Parks Canada fire managers in Waterton this morning to discuss fire activity and response. In addition to Parks Canada’s helicopters, the IMT is using heavy helicopters on the wildfire, as winds permit. The team has 19 firefighters assigned to this fire and stationed at Boundary Bay Backcountry Campground. Once these hot spots are knocked down by heli-bucketing, and it is safe to do so, ground crews will ensure the spots are completely extinguished. Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response.

Additional objectives include preventing wildfire from spreading south around Campbell Mountain and back into the Waterton Valley, and managing fire activity on the west perimeter to suppress smoke that could affect air operations. The forecast is calling for cooler weather tomorrow and over the next few days.

BACKGROUND

Yesterday, fire activity increased on the Boundary Wildfire due to dry and windy conditions. The fire spotted north across Boundary Creek and the U.S. – Canada border, burning into Waterton Lakes National Park for the first time since the fire started. The wildfire exhibited extreme fire behaviour and rapidly burned most of the basin on the southwest facing slope of Mount Richards and the south and east facing slopes of Mount Alderson. The wildfire also travelled east 500 metres along the Boundary Valley, stopping at an avalanche path. Two spot fires are burning beyond the east perimeter of the fire in the valley.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 3 helicopters, initial attack crew, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Waterton Lakes National Park and the Waterton townsite are open. Parks Canada has closed the Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds due to the wildfire activity in the area.

At approximately 15:00, fire activity increased on the Boundary Wildfire due to dry and windy conditions. The fire spotted north across Boundary Creek and the U.S.-Canada border, burning into Waterton Lakes National Park. The wildfire exhibited extreme fire behaviour and burned most of the basin on the southwest facing slope of Mount Richards and the south and east facing slopes of Mount Alderson. The wildfire also travelled east 500 metres along the Boundary Valley, stopping at an avalanche path. Two spot fires are burning beyond the east perimeter of the fire in the valley. Parks Canada bucketed water with a helicopter on the east perimeter of the fire earlier this afternoon.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Currently, the winds and fire activity have diminished. Parks Canada has activated a second helicopter. Both are directly suppressing the fire’s east perimeter until dark by bucketing water with the objective of holding the wildfire at the avalanche path. The U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team has 19 firefighters assigned to this fire and stationed at Boundary Bay Backcountry Campground. Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response.

High winds with slightly cooler temperatures is forecast for tomorrow. This may lead to continued fire activity and smoke. Objectives for the day include holding the fire at the avalanche path and obtaining a GPS perimeter of the wildfire.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes National Park.
• Size: Approximately 1,100 hectares (rough estimate until more accurate mapping completed)
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack crew, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

Parks Canada has closed the Bertha Lake Trail, the Lakeshore Trail and the Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds due to the wildfire activity in the area.

Fire behaviour on the Boundary Wildfire has increased over the past hour due to dry and windy conditions. This increased fire activity is creating dark smoke that will rise from the Boundary Valley and travel north with the wind. Safety is our top priority. Parks Canada has closed the Bertha Lake Trail and Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds.

Parks Canada is monitoring the wildfire from the air by helicopter. A U.S. Incident Management Team is managing the Boundary Wildfire. Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response.

An update will be provided later this evening.

Waterton Lakes National Park is open and ready to welcome visitors. Most recreational activities and tourism opportunities are available.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The Boundary Wildfire remains entirely within Glacier National Park, U.S.A. and is being managed by the Type 1 Northern Rockies Incident Management Team 1. The wildfire remains active and is approximately 860 hectares in size.

It showed some interior burning, with multiple areas of smouldering and creeping fire in the Boundary Creek valley, as the vicinity begins to dry from the precipitation on Sunday and Monday. The weather forecast is calling for gusty weather to continue into the end of the week. The wildfire may show solitary areas of smoke and increased fire activity, such as isolated torching on the southeastern perimeter. Fire activity, including smoke and flame, may be visible to the public in some areas with the return of warmer, sunny weather. Fire managers continue to monitor fire activity and will take action if needed.

Yesterday, windy conditions prevented crews from performing bucket drops on active areas of the fire. If conditions are favorable today, a helicopter will drop water on hot spots on the northeastern flank. Crews are working to minimize fire spread within the Boundary Creek Valley. A fire crew module will arrive today and scout the area for further suppression actions.

Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response. Parks Canada will only provide further updates about the Boundary Wildfire when there are significant changes such as notable fire growth, changes to area closures and anticipated increase in fire activity.

On August 27, 2018 at 09:00, the Evacuation Alert for Waterton Lakes National Park was rescinded. Most areas have reopened that were closed due to the Boundary Wildfire. The Lakeshore Trail is closed south of Bertha Bay to Boundary Bay.

Rain has suppressed the Boundary Wildfire in Glacier National Park, U.S.A. enough for Parks Canada to lift the Evacuation Alert issued for Waterton Lakes National Park.

The fire remains active and is approximately 860 hectares in size. We continue to work closely with Glacier National Park and other partner agencies to manage the wildfire, and protect key infrastructure and resources. Fire activity, including smoke and flame may continue to be visible to the public in some areas in the coming days as sunny warm days return.

Parks Canada will only provide further updates about the Boundary Wildfire when there are significant changes such as notable fire growth, changes to area closures and anticipated increase in fire activity.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

On August 27, 2018 at 09:00, the Evacuation Alert for Waterton Lakes National Park is rescinded. Waterton Lakes National Park has reopened most areas that were closed on August 24 due to the Boundary Wildfire.

This includes:

• Crypt Lake trail
• Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake trails, and Bertha Falls and Bertha Lake backcountry campgrounds
• Emerald Bay Day Use Area
• Driftwood Beach
• Alpine Stables
• Hay Barn Road
• Crandell Loop
• Knight's Lake
• Maskinonge
• Wishbone trail
• Non-motorized access to Red Rock Parkway up to Coppermine Creek
• Access to water bodies

We would like to thank Glacier National Park and other partner agencies for their continued effort on managing this wildfire.

An Evacuation Alert continues to be in effect for all of Waterton Lakes National Park. All backcountry areas and hiking trails in Waterton remain closed, including access up the Red Rock Parkway and on water bodies. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada’s priority.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The Boundary Wildfire remains entirely in Glacier National Park, U.S.A. The Southwest Area Type 1 Incident Management Team has been delegated responsibility for the Boundary Wildfire. Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response.

This morning, a Parks Canada helicopter bucketed water on a hot spot on the north side of Boundary Creek. The aerial crew coordinated with U.S. National Park Service personnel monitoring the fire from the ground.

The U.S. Type 1 Incident Management Team's aerial crews used a helicopter-mounted device to bring the fire to the edge of avalanche paths where the rain and firefighters can more effectively extinguish the fire. Highly trained specialists take into account weather, terrain, fire behaviour, fire control and smoke management before initiating burn-out operations. Higher humidity values moderated the amount of fuel burned out, but the operation resulted in creeping surface fire and intermittent torching of individual and clumps of trees in the fire guard.

Rain is still in the forecast, with 10 to 20 mm of rain expected to fall between 20:30 tonight through until Monday. This weather change may limit fire spread but will not extinguish the fire.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park, USA
• Size: Approximately 860 hectares
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack team, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

ALL OF WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED, with the exception of:

• The Townsite, businesses and tourism opportunities are available
• Highway 5/6 including Entrance Road to Townsite
• Chief Mountain Highway

An Evacuation Alert continues to be in effect for all of Waterton Lakes National Park. All backcountry areas and hiking trails in Waterton remain closed, including access up the Red Rock Parkway and on water bodies. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada’s priority.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The Boundary Wildfire remains entirely in Glacier National Park, U.S.A. The Southwest Area Type 1 Incident Management Team, led by Incident Commander John Pierson, is managing multiple wildfires in northwestern Montana, and has been delegated responsibility for the Boundary Wildfire. This Incident Management Team has been given authority to operate in Waterton by the Superintendent of Waterton Lakes National Park. Parks Canada and U.S. fire managers are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response.

The wildfire exhibited moderately active fire behaviour yesterday evening and moved slightly to the north and east, reaching Boundary Creek. Except for a small spot fire, the wildfire remains on the south side of the creek. As of 10:00 this morning, a Parks Canada helicopter is bucketing water on this spot fire to hold it at Boundary Creek. The aerial crew is coordinating with U.S. National Park Service personnel monitoring the fire from the ground.

Fire managers will take advantage of control lines along favourable terrain and natural breaks in advance of the fire perimeter (an avalanche slide path and a creek) this afternoon if conditions permit. Aerial fire support (dropping water on the fire’s edge) and/or indirect attack actions (burning out fuel in advance of the fire) may be used to contain the fire’s spread north towards Waterton Lakes National Park or east towards Upper Waterton Lakes.

Today’s forecast calls for light showers beginning in the afternoon, with a potential of 10mm to 20mm of rain through until Monday. Higher southwest winds are expected ahead of this rain, but high relative humidity (60-70%) will constrain fire behaviour. This weather change may limit fire spread but will not extinguish the fire.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park, USA
• Size: Approximately 860 hectares
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack team, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

ALL OF WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED, with the exception of:

• The Townsite, businesses and tourism opportunities are available
• Highway 5/6 including Entrance Road to Townsite
• Chief Mountain Highway

An Evacuation Alert continues to be in effect for all of Waterton Lakes National Park. All backcountry areas and hiking trails in Waterton remain closed, including access up the Red Rock Parkway and on water bodies. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada’s priority.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The wildfire has not grown significantly throughout the day and remains in the Boundary Creek Valley in Glacier National Park, U.S.A. There was minimal fire growth north towards Boundary Creek. The fire is approximately 7 kilometres from the Waterton townsite.

Today’s weather forecast was accurate with lower than normal temperatures and winds from the southwest. This caused some active fire behaviour of moderate intensity this afternoon, including surface fire (visible flames burning twigs, logs and brush on the ground) and isolated single tree torching (whole tree goes up in flames).

Weather forecast is similar for tomorrow, with a significant amount of rain forecast for Sunday night and into Monday. This weather change may slow fire spread, but fire managers do not expect the anticipated precipitation to extinguish the fire.

Fire managers have identified control lines where crews could take advantage of favourable terrain and natural breaks in advance of the fire perimeter (an avalanche slide path and a creek). Direct fire suppression and/or indirect attack actions may be used to contain the fire’s spread north towards Waterton Lakes National Park or east towards Upper Waterton Lake at these lines.

Heavy smoke prevented air operations earlier in the day. Reconnaissance flights took place, and additional air operations will take place this evening if conditions allow. Parks Canada and the U.S. National Park Service are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response. Parks Canada has installed structural protection at backcountry campgrounds.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park, USA
• Size: Approximately 770 hectares
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack team, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

ALL OF WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED, with the exception of:

• The Townsite, businesses and tourism opportunities are available
• Highway 5/6 including Entrance Road to Townsite
• Chief Mountain Highway

An Evacuation Alert continues to be in effect for all of Waterton Lakes National Park. All backcountry areas and hiking trails in Waterton remain closed, including access up the Red Rock Parkway and on water bodies. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada’s priority.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The fire did not grow significantly last night and it remains in the Boundary Creek Valley in Glacier National Park, U.S.A. The wildfire is approximately 7 kilometres from the Waterton townsite.

There was no rain last night at the Warden Office or Boundary Bay and only 0.2 mm at Goat Haunt. There is heavy smoke in the air this morning. The weather forecast for today is calling for lower than seasonal temperatures and moderate southwest winds that could lead to some active fire behaviour on wildfire’s east flank. A significant amount of rain is forecast for Sunday night and Monday.

Parks Canada and the U.S. National Park Service are coordinating efforts closely and are in constant communication about fire activity and response. Yesterday, August 24, Glacier National Park Air Attack assessed the wildfire in the morning and afternoon. Due to gusty north winds and low-lying smoke, aerial crews were not able to drop water on the fire. Glacier National Park Air Attack will assess the fire again this morning and take action as conditions allow. Parks Canada has installed structural protection at backcountry campgrounds.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park, USA
• Size: Approximately 770 hectares
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack team, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

ALL OF WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED, with the exception of:

• The Townsite, businesses and tourism opportunities are available
• Highway 5/6 including Entrance Road to Townsite
• Chief Mountain Highway

An Evacuation Alert is in effect for all of Waterton Lakes National Park. All backcountry areas and hiking trails in Waterton remain closed, including access up the Red Rock Parkway and on water bodies. The safety of the public, our crews, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is always Parks Canada’s priority.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The Boundary Wildfire was active along its perimeter, with ground fire and occasional torching. The fire has not grown significantly today and it remains in the Boundary Creek Valley in Glacier National Park, U.S.A. The wildfire is approximately 7 kilometres from the Waterton townsite.

Parks Canada continues to coordinate efforts closely with the U.S. National Park Service. Glacier National Park Air Attack assessed the wildfire in the morning and afternoon. Due to gusty north winds and low-lying smoke, aerial crews were not able to drop water on the fire this morning or in the afternoon. Parks Canada has installed structural protection at backcountry campgrounds.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park, USA
• Size: Approximately 700 hectares
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack team, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

ALL OF WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED, with the exception of:

• The Townsite
• Highway 5/6 including Entrance Road to Townsite
• Chief Mountain Highway

Yesterday evening, a wildfire started south of Waterton Lakes National Park in the Boundary Creek Valley, west of Upper Waterton Lake in Glacier National Park, USA. Due to the wildfire’s behaviour and location, and weather predictions, Parks Canada issued an Evacuation Alert for all of Waterton Lakes National Park last night.

All backcountry areas and hiking trails in Waterton Lakes National Park are currently closed. Parks Canada staff evacuated backcountry campgrounds and swept trails in Waterton yesterday evening. The Evacuation Alert was shared door-to-door throughout the community of Waterton Park, on social media and through Alberta Emergency Alerts.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Waterton Lakes and Glacier national parks monitored the wildfire throughout the night from Upper Waterton Lake. The wildfire is approximately 700 hectares in size. This is a rough estimate, the size may change once it is more accurately mapped. Currently, the fire is still south of the international border in Glacier National Park, USA. Parks Canada and the U.S. National Park Service are coordinating efforts closely. Air resources will be used today to slow the spread of fire eastward toward Waterton Lake, as conditions permit. Glacier National Park Air Attack is over the fire at this time.

Glacier National Park is implementing structure protection measures in the Goat Haunt area. Parks Canada is installing structure protection at Boundary Bay and Bertha Bay backcountry campgrounds. Parks Canada will bring in additional structural protection resources to the Waterton townsite if required.

As of 10:00 winds have shifted and are blowing from the north. Today’s weather forecast is calling for potential rain, increased relative humidity and lower temperatures beginning this evening. The Waterton townsite remains open, but visitors are advised that the Evacuation Alert is still in effect.

BACKGROUND

Parks Canada received a report of smoke at approximately 18:00 yesterday (Thursday, August 23). Soon after a helicopter patrol spotted a wildfire near Boundary Creek in Glacier National Park. The wildfire was exhibiting extreme behaviour caused by strong winds and dry fuel. The fire grew quickly, from initial reports of approximately 20 hectares to 100 hectares within an hour, and at 500 hectares in 2 hours. Initial air attack resources assessed the situation and determined that air suppression would not be successful due to the conditions. Parks Canada will continue to work closely with Glacier National Park to assess options for suppression and containment.

FIRE QUICK FACTS

• Location: Boundary Creek Valley, Glacier National Park, USA
• Size: Approximately 700 hectares
• Status: Out of control
• Parks Canada Resources: 2 helicopters, initial attack team, local incident management team

WHAT’S OPEN AND CLOSED

ALL OF WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK IS CLOSED, with the exception of:

• The Townsite
• Highway 5/6 including Entrance Road to Townsite
• Chief Mountain Highway