Fire photo by Darry Russell
Evacuations ordered near Redwater and Boyle as Alberta wildfire season intensifies
STURGEON COUNTY, Alta. Tension remains high west of Redwater as residents await word on whether they can return home or if more neighbourhoods will be forced to flee. A fast-moving wildfire, first reported Sunday afternoon, has scorched more than 400 hectares and triggered an evacuation order in a section of Sturgeon County. That order remains in effect for everyone located from Range Road 211 east to Range Road 203, and between Township Road 580 south to Township Road 573, including the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area.
Emergency alerts sent to mobile phones Sunday sparked familiar dread among residents who have experienced wildfire evacuations before. Road closures may be implemented depending on the fire’s movement, and the public is urged to check Alberta 511 for the latest travel information, particularly if heading toward Edmonton.
Meanwhile, a second major wildfire prompted an evacuation order near Boyle in Athabasca County, northeast of Edmonton. The fire, burning along Highway 831 between the Boyle Fishpond and the Ellscott turnoff, is being driven by strong winds and dry conditions. Everyone east of Range Road 194 and south of Township Road 644 has been ordered to leave immediately. Authorities warn that people east of RR 195 and south of Township Road 650 are not currently under an evacuation order but should be ready to evacuate on short notice.
The Boyle region, which aided Fort McMurray evacuees during the devastating 2016 wildfire, now finds itself in the path of a potential disaster.
Across Alberta, the spring wildfire season has taken a fierce turn. As of Monday, six wildfires are burning out of control, 15 are under control, and two are being held. In total, 3,061 hectares of wildland have already burned this year. Mutual aid agreements are being enacted allowing provincial and municipal crews work together to manage the growing number of fires outside the confines of the Alberta Forest Protection Area.
Adding to the concern, a red flag warning, adapted from the U.S. National Weather Service model, is in effect for parts of the province. The advisory signals an especially hazardous fire environment, calling for heightened public awareness and caution. Fire advisories are also in effect for numerous regions, including the Lac La Biche forest area, which overlaps parts of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo.
Current fire bans and restrictions can be found at albertafirebans.ca. Authorities are also suggesting motorists check Alberta 511 prior to travel, as the ever changing conditions and high winds may affect travel. Officials continue to stress the importance of readiness and vigilance as Alberta’s wildfire threat escalates.
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