FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta— Firefighters are not expected to get a break as the province warns of ongoing intense fire activity. Alberta Wildfire has issued an extreme fire behavior advisory as the extended heat has rendered the forest tinder dry.
Adding to concerns, specialized fire-weather forecasters say a cold front is expected to sweep through the province, creating strong winds with dramatic shifts in direction, which may challenge suppression efforts. A trifecta of strong erratic winds, dry fuels, and potential lightning will also make it way into the province.
This week, the province brought in a night-vision-equipped remotely operated vehicle to help scan the fires and pinpoint strategic hotspots for firefighters to attack in their ongoing battle to keep the blazes at bay.
There has been little change in fire sizes over the past 24 hours. However, Janvier, a hamlet 120 kilometers southeast of Fort McMurray, remains under an evacuation alert. Alberta Transport continues to warn that Highway 881 may close with short notice as nearby fires flare up again.
International assistance is also arriving in Alberta. Nearly 60 firefighters and support personnel from Australia landed in Edmonton on Sunday. They will add to the growing pool of resources deployed across the province.
Officials say the region may see some relief on Thursday as rain is expected, with some areas potentially experiencing heavy showers.