Updated: Highway 63 and 881 closed due to wildfires
Update as of 5:17am Alberta 511 are reporting highway 63 has been partially reopened to Traffic in both directions. Expect delays in the area due to heavy smoke. FORT MCMURRAY, Alberta —Travelers are advised to check the status of local highways before heading out. Wildfires burning near Highway 63 and Highway 881 are rapidly changing conditions. Both highways closed at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, July 22, 2024. Highway 63 opened…
Extreme fire behavior to challenge crews
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…
Evacuation Alert issued for Janvier and Chipewyan Prairie First Nation
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) is placing the community of Janvier on an evacuation alert. The Chipewyan Prairie First Nation is also issuing an evacuation alert. There are two growing out-of-control wildfires near the communities which are prompting…
Stepping Stones seeking donations to help beat the heat
The ongoing heatwave is putting stress on community organizations. Woods Homes, the agency that runs Stepping Stones Youth Services, says they are in desperate need of supplies for their clients. Bjorne Johansson, CEO of Woods Homes says people living without…
FireSmart Interpretive Trail opens in Thickwood
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) has officially opened the FireSmart Interpretive Trail. The pathway showcases FireSmart practices in construction and landscaping, including interpretive signs, demonstration panels, and displays. It also provides information on the ecology of the boreal…