Heat warnings, fire bans, restrictions and advisories issued for much of southern Alberta
Region expected to endure several days of hot, dry conditions
With a fire advisory already in place for a large swath of territory west of Calgary, a heat warning has been issued for much of southern Alberta.
Environment Canada issued the warning Wednesday afternoon, saying temperatures are expected to reach highs of 29 C and above, with overnight lows of 14 C.
Because of the heat, Alberta Agriculture and Forestry says any burning other than campfires is prohibited in the Calgary Forest Area, which stretches from the Foothills west into the Rockies, from north of the Banff townsite and almost as far south as Waterton National Park.
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All existing fire permits have been cancelled and no new permits will be issued until further notice, the ministry said on its fire ban website.
Wood campfires are still allowed in campgrounds and in random camping areas.
Charcoal briquette, portable propane fire pits and gas or propane stoves and barbecues are also allowed.
"Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished," the website said.
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A fire ban notice has been issued for the Municipal District of Taber, restricting all open fires and cancelling all existing fire permits.
The ban does not cover backyard fire pits and fires in designated camping and recreational areas, including the M.D. of Taber Park, Enchant Campground, Hays Campground and Vauxhall Lions Campground, says Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.
The province has also issued a fire restriction notice for Vulcan County, where fire permits will remain valid but no new permits will be issued.
Fire advisories also cover much of southeastern Alberta, including Cypress County and areas to the north, including Oyen and Hana.
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