Results for: Alberta Wildfire

A wildfire near Fort McMurray has been brought under control, meaning it is contained and will eventually be extinguished. Alberta Wildfire commended the efforts of firefighters and support staff, acknowledging the challenging days and long hours spent battling the blaze. Although the fire is contained, firefighters remain on standby to address any remaining hotspots within the perimeter. The wildfire remains at 18,593 hectares, with minimal ground fire to be extinguished. Residents evacuated from nearby neighborhoods have been allowed to return home.

A threatening wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alberta, remains out of control, forcing thousands to evacuate. Premier Danielle Smith will hold a news conference Wednesday morning to provide an update on the situation, which has seen 6,600 residents from the southern part of the city forced to leave their homes. The wildfire, known as MWF-017, has grown to 20,940 hectares and is burning about 7.5 kilometers from the Fort McMurray landfill. Officials are monitoring the situation closely and will provide further updates as they become available.

Alberta has launched a new program to bolster its wildfire response capabilities by recruiting volunteers with skills or heavy equipment to assist in mitigating wildfires. The Wildfire Reservist Program allows individuals to register their interest in providing non-firefighting support or operating heavy equipment to establish fire barriers and contain blazes near communities. Candidates for emergency firefighter positions will undergo training and fitness assessments to ensure readiness. The program aims to create a pool of qualified volunteers who can be deployed when needed to supplement existing resources. While current wildfire conditions do not necessitate activating reservists, Alberta Wildfire emphasizes the importance of advance preparation to ensure timely deployment in case of emergencies. Contractors with specialized equipment and services, such as bulldozers, water trucks, and aircraft, can also sign up through a separate contracting form.

Fire crews have successfully controlled a wildfire that broke out in northeastern Alberta, southwest of Fort McMurray. The fire, which initially spanned 12 hectares, rapidly grew to 34 hectares before crews, air tankers, and a night-vision helicopter intervened. Despite the visible smoke, no communities were affected. The wildfire occurred shortly after Alberta Wildfire officials reported no out-of-control fires in the province, highlighting the importance of monitoring conditions closely during wildfire season.