Wildfire Updates

Links & Resources

Alberta Wildfire Status Map & Updates (Alberta Government)
Alberta Emergency Alert
Local Weather
Alberta Wildfire Evacuee Support Facebook Page
NASA FIRMS Wildfire Data
Town of High Level Website
Mackenzie County Website
Town of High Level Facebook
Town of Manning Facebook
County of Northern Lights
Town of Slave Lake Website
Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement Facebook


 

June 26, 2019 9:00am

As we approach the long weekend, most fire bans have been lifted around Northern Alberta!

The Town of High Level & MD of Peace No. 135 remain on a ban.

Birch Hills & The Town of Hines Creek are on an advisory.

All the details can be found on the Alberta Fire Bans Page.

 

June 25, 2019 9:00pm

MESSAGE from the MACKENZIE COUNTY Facebook Page:

At this time, the evacuation alert that has been in place for areas of Mackenzie County is being lifted.

With the recent rains and cooler temperatures, conditions have been met that allow for the evacuation alert to be lifted.

While this is good news, residents need to be aware that there is still a large and unpredictable wildfire in the area.

Under the current weather conditions, the wildfire isn’t an immediate threat to our residents. However, residents will be immediately notified should a future evacuation alert become necessary.

As always, we ask our residents to continue to be vigilant when it comes to fire-related activities and use care and caution as you enjoy your long weekend.

Working with Alberta Wildfire, we are carefully monitoring conditions and the fire’s behaviour, while firefighters continue to work to make advances in containing the fire.

*Courtesy of Mackenzie County

 

June 25, 2019 8:00pm

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE |

With favourable weather conditions steady progress has been made on the Chuckegg Creek wildfire. Today, there were some active hotspots within the fire perimeter due to afternoon heating from the sun, resulting in increased smoke and some open flame.

The north, west, and south sides have remained quiet and the most of the current fire behaviour is in the east side. Three dozer groups are working to build guard from Peace River towards the Boyer River Cell Tower. New lines of dozer guard are also being established on the west side of the Peace River, northwest of Moose Island. Additional firefighters have arrived and they will be assigned to priority areas on the east side of the wildfire to help with direct attack, laying hose and patrolling. Today, the fire department in conjunction with wildland firefighters worked on hotspots along Highways 35 and 58.

There are 46 helicopters currently working on this wildfire and as a result the restricted airspace on and around the wildfire is very busy, and a NOTAM is in place. It is illegal to operate any aircraft not associated with wildfire suppression in the restricted area, including drones. Please do not fly drones near or within the fire perimeter of the Chuckegg Creek wildfire. When a drone is near a wildfire it endangers firefighting personnel and may cause firefighting operations to stop.

  • The fire is 331,946 hectares in size.
  • There are 1,180 firefighters and personnel, 338 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

 

June 25, 2019 6:00pm

The Fire Ban and the Off-Highway Vehicle Restriction for the High Level Forest Area has been lifted effective June 25, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. and a Fire Advisory has been put in place, due to a high hazard and local fire activity.

  • Safe Campfires are currently allowed, but may be restricted in the coming days if weather conditions change.
  • Current seasonal permits issued until October 31, 2019 are permitted.
  • New permits will only be issued for smudges, burn barrels and light debris yard clean up.

To get a fire permit please call 780-926-5407 and leave a detailed message with your home location, burn location and what you plan to burn. A patrolman will collect your info and call you to set up a visit.

Visit albertafirebans.ca for more information or download the new Alberta Fire Bans mobile app.

 

June 25, 2019 11:30 am

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE

There are 5 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 2 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding the Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below for more info.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 27 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 44 firefighters, 6 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

WEATHER

Today’s weather forecast is for temperature highs around 18 to 19°C with relative humidity from 60 to 70%. Winds will be out of the NE 5-10 km/hr with 50 to 60% of thundershowers.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

Firefighters and heavy equipment have been making progress in all priority areas of the Chuckegg Creek wildfire. Yesterday, on the south side crews have advanced the construction of a dozer guard from Highway 35 to the Peace River. A small excursion, approximately 6.5 ha, east of the Peace River just northwest of La Crete was extinguished yesterday.

In the southwest moving north, crews will be continuing to build dozer guard followed by firefighters laying hose to reinforce the guard. In this area, the firefighters will be mopping up and patrolling the Paddle Prairie area. They will also be patrolling the fire perimeter and mopping-up inwards 100 feet. On the western side of the fire, firefighters will direct attack any hotspots along the perimeter and patrol/mop-up 100 feet into the fire. Heavy equipment will be working to build guard, heli-pads used for access, and clearing safety zone areas. Helicopters are also available to assist firefighters in this area, if support is needed. On the north end of the wildfire, crews will be working to extinguish large ash pits.

Firefighters will continue to extinguish hotspots identified through infrared scanning. On the eastern side, crews are conducting mop-up 100 feet from the guard into the fire. Crews will continue to move east to build dozer guard north of eastern side between Highway 35 and the Peace River.  Firefighters will lay hose along this guard to reinforce the area. Firefighters and helicopters will also be working to extinguish hotspots. Due to current and forecasted conditions, there are no plans to conduct large ignition operations in the near future.

Today’s weather forecast is for temperature highs around 18 to 19°C with relative humidity from 60 to 70%. Winds will be out of the NE 5-10 km/hr with 50 to 60% of thundershowers. Yesterday, there was no growth of this wildfire and the fire behaviour is expected to be low again today. Smoke with continue to be visible within the fire perimeter especially on the East side near the community of La Crete.

Fire Department resources continue to work on hotspots along Highway 58, as safety is the highest priority, please slow down when driving in this area. Structure protection units remains in place, in the Blue Hills and Le Crete area.

  • The fire is 331,946 hectares in size.
  • There are 1,180 firefighters and personnel, 338 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

The forecast for today at the Jackpot Creek Fire calls for a continuing pattern of the same cool, wet weather we’ve seen over the last few days. Temperature for the area is expected to reach a high of 21, relative humidity of 50%, Northeast winds at 10 km/h, a 60% chance of showers and a risk of a thunderstorm.

Crews will continue working along the West side of Highway 35, securing dozer lines and establishing hose lays to prevent the fire from spreading towards the highway. Work will also continue on the Southwest side of Highway 35 as crews identify and extinguish hotspots.

The Jackpot Creek Fire Camp’s firefighter complement grew as a Newfoundland crew was welcomed in Monday evening. The Newfoundland crew will be joining existing crews on the fireline this morning as they continue suppression efforts.

  • The fire is 77,468 hectares in size.
  • There are 189 firefighters and personnel, 5 pieces of heavy equipment and 22 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 24, 2019 8pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 5 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 2 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding the Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below for more info.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 27 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 31 firefighters, 5 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

Today, many areas in the vicinity of Chuckegg Creek Wildfire did receive the predicted precipitation but there was variable amounts of rain recorded within the fire perimeter. There was no growth of the fire today but there are still hotspots and smoke visible within the fire perimeter especially on the East flank of the fire, west the community of La Crete. Tomorrow’s forecast is for similar weather conditions as today; with a forecasted temperature of 22°C, relative humidity of 50 to 60%, and variable N-NW winds at 10km/hr. There is a 70% chance of thundershowers for tomorrow with 1 to 5mm of precipitation expected.

Crews made progress on the south side of the fire finishing the construction of a dozer guard from Highway 35 to the Peace River. Also, two crews completed work on a small excursion, approximately 6.5 ha, east of the Peace River just northwest of La Crete. Firefighters made progress by mopping-up and extinguishing hotspots in other areas of the wildfire.

An infrared scan will be completed tonight to identify and map additional hotspots (heat sources) that need to be extinguished to help increase the containment of this wildfire. The existing structure protection remains in place as a precautionary measure.

  • The fire is 331,946 hectares in size.
  • There are 1,053 firefighters and personnel, 311 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

Firefighters were able to make good progress today on the Jackpot Creek fire. Favourable weather conditions (precipitation, low temperatures and high relative humidity) aided firefighters in accomplishing their goals and objectives for the day.

Firefighters concentrated their efforts on the East side of Highway 35, working towards the North. Crews worked on hose lay lines, reinforced dozer guard lines and worked on hotspots. Firefighters who are scheduled to arrive in camp this evening, will be joining current crews in their suppression efforts tomorrow.

Helicopter infrared scanning was completed and helped firefighters better identify hotspots in priority areas. Firefighters also opened up areas with chainsaws which made more room for helicopters to complete bucketing runs, delivering water to identified hotspots. Scanning flights will continue on the West side of Highway 35 and on the South end to identify any remaining hotspots.

Weather forecasts for tomorrow are predicting conditions similar to the last few days with cooler, damp weather. These conditions will continue to aid firefighters in suppressing the fire.

  • The fire is 77,468 hectares in size.
  • There are 194 firefighters and personnel, 5 pieces of heavy equipment and 25 helicopters working on this fire.

 

June 24, 2019 11:00am

Removal of Evacuation Alert – Town of High Level

The Town of High Level has lifted the evacuation alert for the community effective as of 2:00 p.m. today (Monday June 24th). The Town feels it is safe to lift the alert because of favourable weather conditions and less aggressive fire growth. The change in weather has allowed Alberta Wildfire to increase its firefighting measures around the fire in an attempt to limit future fire spread. However, wildfires do continue to burn in the area and warming temperature could increase fire threat over the next week. Please remain vigilant and prepared.

Source: Town of High Level Facebook page

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 5 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 2 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 27 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 31 firefighters, 5 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

***The next update will be at 8 p.m., or if conditions change.

WEATHER

The forecast for today is calling for a high of 19 degrees, with humidity of 55-60%, winds N/NE 10-15 km/hr and a 70% chance of thundershowers.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE | JUNE 24, 2019 AT 11:00 AM

The continued weather trend of cooler temperatures and scattered showers has reduced the current fire behaviour and has aided firefighting efforts. Despite this shift in weather, the forest fuels can dry out quickly. Today’s forecast is a high of 19°C, with a relative humidity of 55-60% and wind will be from the N-NE 10-15 km/hr. There is 70% chance of precipitation today with the possibility of 5 to 10mm.

As weather conditions are only one factor in containing this wildfire, on-the- ground crews and helicopter bucketing operations continue to work and make progress. There are over 1000 firefighters and personnel working on this wildfire, and in the next few days over 370 firefighters will be arriving from different provinces and countries to relieve some of the current firefighters and will continue with suppression efforts.

Today, crews will continue to build dozer guard north of eastern side of the fire between Highway 35 and the Peace River. Firefighters will lay hose along this guard to reinforce the area.  Firefighters and helicopters will also be working to extinguish hotspots.

At the north end of this wildfire, firefighters will be working to extinguish hotspots along Highway 58, and if driving in this area please be cognizant of firefighters and conditions. In other areas, crews continue with mop-up, patrol, and extinguishment of hotspots. This direct attack method may include remove burning material along or near the control line (guards). It makes these areas safe and reduces smoke.

There is still an active wildfire with smoke but with the current conditions the fire behaviour is expected to be low resulting in minimal growth. The current size of this wildfire is approximately 331,946 hectares, and the change in size is due to more accurate mapping. At this time, structure protection remains in place and maintained.

  • The fire is 331,760 hectares in size.
  • There are 1,053 firefighters and personnel, 311 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE | JUNE 24, 2019 AT 11:00 AM

Due to current weather conditions, suppression efforts over the weekend on the Jackpot Creek Fire saw some very encouraging results. Crews were able to suppress some perimeter lines and then push inward extinguishing hotspots and dealing with flare-ups and deeper burns.

Crews and helicopters are continuing with ground work and bucketing today. Weather indicators show a continuing trend of below average temperatures, light precipitation and relatively high humidity which will aid firefighter’s in their suppression efforts. Crew transitions are on-going as some firefighters finish their tour and other new crews are welcomed in. The Jackpot Creek Fire’s current staffing complement consists of personnel from Alberta, Newfoundland (arriving today), Ontario, Saskatchewan and the United States.

  • The fire is 77,468 hectares in size.
  • There are 194 firefighters and personnel, 5 pieces of heavy equipment and 25 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 24, 2019 10:50 am

Effective at 2:00 p.m. today, the mandatory evacuation order that has been in place for several areas in Mackenzie County will be lifted and residents can return to their homes. This is good news for our residents, but it is important to know that the threat of wildfire still exists in Mackenzie County. This is still a high-risk area with a very active wildfire.

Under the current weather conditions, the wildfire isn’t an immediate threat to our residents. However, that could change if certain weather conditions are met.

Mackenzie County remains under evacuation alert and residents must be ready to leave on short notice. Please remain prepared by ensuring your essential items remain ready to go and by leaving your RV or holiday trailer in place until the alert is lifted.

The safety of Mackenzie County residents has been and continues to be, our highest concern.

For more details please visit the Mackenzie County website – www.mackenziecounty.com where you will find the Re-Entry Booklet.

For more information, call: 780-927-3718

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook page

 

June 23, 2019, 9:00pm

Peace River area update

There have been 89 wildfires this fire season in the Peace River Forest Area, all but three of which have now been extinguished:

Battle Complex- PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire remains BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

Thanks to the hard work of firefighters, aircraft and heavy equipment, 75% of the fire perimeter is now considered to be contained. A combination of crews, heavy equipment and aerial resources continued to target and action the hot spots today and will do so tomorrow as well.  There is limited fire behaviour potential for the next few days with the forecasted unsettled weather.

PWF 070 remains classified as under control at 251 hectares in size west of Keg River. The fire has been completely surrounded by dozer guard.  Crews continue to patrol the fire.

PWF 076 is under control at 37 hectares in size in the Cliffdale area (33 kms east of St. Isidore and 27 kms south of Cadotte Lake). Firefighters and air support continue to work on this wildfire.

 

June 23, 2019, 8:00pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 6 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 3 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF096, is classified as Out of Control (OC) and is located 57 km northwest of the Town of Rainbow Lake at 2 hectares in size. There are 18 firefighters and 3 helicopters working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 36 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 39 firefighters, 5 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

***The next update will be at 11 a.m., or if conditions change.

WEATHER

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 19 degrees, with humidity of 55-60%, winds N/NE 10-15 km/hr and a 70% chance of thundershowers.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE | JUNE 23, 2019 AT 8:00 PM

The break in the weather today gave firefighters the opportunity to make good progress on the fireline. Dozers continued to cut line across the top of the fire between Highway 35 and the Peace River. The fire is still active in this area with some flare ups and torching trees even under today’s weather conditions. Crews worked along the line behind the dozers deploying pumps and stringing hose. Crews will work from this line, extinguishing hotspots, flare-ups, and dealing with smouldering ground and burning tree roots. They will work along the perimeter and then work inwards in a systematic way.

Crews were very productive extinguishing hot spots along Highway 58 today. Solid work was completed on the spot fire on the east side of the Peace River as well as on the fire on the island. Deep burning roots and organic matter mean this effort is very labor intensive. Structure protection remains in place in various communities. These areas are patrolled regularly.

By 3 pm today we received about 1.2 ml of rain in Thompkins Landing and just over 2 ml in Rocky Lane.  A chance of scattered thundershowers are possible for this evening.  The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 19 degrees, with humidity of 55-60%, winds N/NE 10-15 km/hr and a 70% chance of thundershowers that could bring anywhere from 1 ml to 10 ml of rain! The forecast for Tuesday to Thursday is high teens with continued chance of 1 – 5 ml of precipitation. Under these conditions, there is little chance for fire growth.

  • The fire is 331,760 hectares in size.
  • There are 1,150 firefighters and personnel, 311 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE | JUNE 23, 2019 AT 8:00 PM

A combination of lower than average seasonal temperatures, relatively high humidity levels, heavy equipment work, some great ground work and a bit of precipitation has helped to produce very positive results on the Jackpot Creek Fire over the last couple of days. The forecast for tomorrow shows some promise for more precipitation which will continue to aid firefighter’s efforts on this fire.

Heavy equipment operators have created 19 kilometers of fireguard and crews have begun working in several areas reinforcing those lines.

  • The fire is 77,468 hectares in size.
  • There are 185 firefighters and personnel, 5 pieces of heavy equipment and 25 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

 

June 23, 2019, 10:30 am

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 5 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 2 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 36 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire. Minimal growth has been reported as the fire received some rain.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. The fire saw minimal growth today due to the cooler temperatures and the fire receiving some more rain. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 39 firefighters, 5 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

***The next update will be at 8 p.m., or if conditions change.

WEATHER

The forecast for today is calling for a high of 20 degrees, 45% humidity, winds out of the N/NW at 20 km/hr gusting to 40 km/hr, and a chance of thundershowers. The forecast is the similar for the next several days. There is no organized or widespread rain in the forecast, just scattered showers.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE | JUNE 23, 2019 AT 10:30 AM

There was little growth on the fire overnight. There is continual slow movement of the fire to the east/southeast toward the Peace River, some active burning on the west side, and overall smouldering, smoke and hotspots.

Crews are hard at work again today on hotspots along Highway 58. Smoke could be an issue on this highway today.  The RCMP will be on site if conditions deteriorate. Check Alberta 511 for road reports. No other highways are impacted at this time.

Other crews are focusing on the north edge of the fire, east of Highway 35 and over to the Peace River. Dozers made good progress yesterday, cutting new line across the top of the fire. Crews are deploying pumps and hose along this line, working to extinguish the fire along the perimeter and then they will work their way inwards.

Crews continue to work on the spot fire on the east side of the Peace River. Due to the very deep burning conditions in the organic soils, we anticipate crews will need several more days to get this area of the fire extinguished. Structure protection continues to be monitored in the various communities.

The forecast for today is for a high of 20 degrees, 45% humidity, winds N/NW at 20 km/hr gusting to 40 km/hr, with potential for slow moving afternoon thundershowers.

  • The fire is 331,946 hectares in size.
  • There are 1,150 firefighters and personnel, 311 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE | JUNE 23, 2019 AT 10:30 AM

The fire received some rain showers this yesterday afternoon and therefore minimal growth has been reported. The rain in combination with the higher humidity continues to help firefighters make great progress on the fire in all priority areas. Heavy equipment has completed a fireguard in priority areas as well.

  • The fire is 77,468 hectares in size.
  • There are 185 firefighters and personnel, 5 pieces of heavy equipment and 25 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 23, 2019, 9:30am

Update from AHS regarding Service Levels at Northwest Health Centre

Through the continued uncertainty and possible volatility around the current wildfire situation in the High Level area, Alberta Health Services is working toward bringing service at the Northwest Health Centre back to full operational levels.

The care and safety of our patients and staff has been, and continues to be, our top priority as we work to bring full supports back to the community.

All planning is dependent on fire and smoke conditions in the area and subject to adjustment to ensure the safety of those providing and receiving care in High Level during this time.

Obstetrical services have re-opened at the Northwest Health Centre. If smoke and fire conditions permit, AHS will re-open all acute care admitting beds, elective surgeries and labour and delivery inductions as per AHS policy, next week.

Palliative Care and Long-Term Care services at the Northwest Health Centre remain closed and will be reviewed over the coming weeks as the wildfire situation evolves.

Considering the impact of evacuation on our vulnerable patients and residents, it is important to minimize the stress of transfers and travel in the event of further evacuation notices.

To ensure the comfort and safety of those palliative and long-term care residents, they will continue to be cared for in their temporary locations until it is safe for them to be transported home.

This timeline will be further refined based on future fire and smoke activity updates for the area.
Residents from the area that are currently in acute care facilities elsewhere in the province and awaiting transfer back will return as it is safe to do so. Those returns are reviewed on a case to case basis and consider patient specific conditions such as respiratory conditions and other pertinent considerations.

As per normal process, patients presenting to the Northwest Health Centre may continue to be transferred out of the community for care based on their clinical needs and the fluid nature of the wildfire situation.

Please contact Health Link at 811 with any questions regarding services at the Northwest Health Centre.

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook page

 

June 23, 2019, 8:00am

JUNE 23, 2019 8:00AM
HIGHWAY UPDATE

Highway 697 from the junction of Highway 35 to the La Crete Ferry is open.

Expect low to zero visibility in area due to smoke caused by the wildfire. Expect possibility of travel restriction or closures at anytime.

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook page

 

June 22, 2019, 9pm

Battle Complex- PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire remains BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

Firefighting efforts continued today using a combination of crews, heavy equipment and aerial resources to target and extinguish hot spots within the perimeter.  Due to the hard work of these resources over the past weeks, this fire is now considered 65% contained.  The higher temperatures and lower humidity levels resulted in increased fire behavior throughout the day and some of the unburned stands of trees within the perimeter burned today, but the fire did not cross the guard.

PWF 070 remains classified as under control at 251 hectares in size west of Keg River. The fire has been completely surrounded by dozer guard.  Crews continue to patrol the fire.

PWF 076 is under control at 37 hectares in size in the Cliffdale area (33 kms east of St. Isidore and 27 kms south of Cadotte Lake). Firefighters and air support continue to work on this wildfire.

PWF 086 is was discovered late yesterday afternoon and has been extinguished at 2.6 hectares in size west of Bison Lake.

 

June 22, 2019, 7:30 pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 5 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 2 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 37 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire. Minimal growth has been reported as the fire received some rain.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. The fire saw minimal growth today due to the cooler temperatures and the fire receiving some more rain. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 42 firefighters, 5 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

***The next update will be at 11 a.m., or if conditions change.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE

It took quite awhile for the smoke and fog to lift this morning which kept fire activity suppressed, giving crews the opportunity to work aggressively directly on the fireline. In the area between Highway 35 and the Peace River, dozers worked to put guard in along the front of the fire. Crews followed, with pumps and laying hose along the cleared line to contain the fire. Crews will use these dozer lines to work from, extinguishing fire along the perimeter and then working their way inwards.

Other crews continued work on the spot fire across the River, working diligently to extinguish all hotspots and smouldering areas. More crews worked the north and west sides of the fire while others concentrated on the hot spots along Highway 58. Despite the quieter conditions today there was active fire within the fire perimeter on the west side.

The forecast for tonight is for higher humidity levels and a strong inversion meaning it will likely be smoky with poor visibility again tomorrow. The high on Sunday is about 20 degrees, 45% humidity, winds out of the N/NW at 20 km/hr gusting to 40 km/hr, and a chance of thundershowers.  The forecast is the same for the next several days. There is no organized or widespread rain in the forecast, just scattered showers. Under these conditions we do not expect the fire to grow for the next several days.

  • The fire is 331, 946 hectares in size.
  • There are 1, 150 firefighters and personnel, 311 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

The fire received some rain showers this afternoon and therefore minimal growth has been reported. The rain in combination with the higher humidity has continued to help firefighters make great progress on the fire in all priority areas. Heavy equipment has completed a fireguard in priority areas as well.

  • There are 212 firefighters and personnel, 20 pieces of heavy equipment and 26 helicopters working on this fire.
  • The fire is 77, 468 hectares in size.

Source: srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 22, 2019 11:45 am

AHS Plans

Alberta Health Services (AHS) is working to bring service levels at Northwest Health Centre back to full operational levels.

In preparation for possible re-entry, AHS has outlined the following:

Obstetrical Services Re-Opened
As of Friday, June 21, 2019, the Northwest Health Centre has re-opened Obstetrical Services (admitting obstetrical patients, vaginal deliveries and continue with emergency C-sections/D & C’s). Up to 14 acute care beds at the Northwest Health Center will also be opened as of Friday, June 21.

Acute Care, Open Elective Surgeries Labour and Delivery Inductions.
Beginning Monday, June 24, 2019, if conditions in the area permit, the Northwest Health Centre will re-open all acute care admitting beds, open elective surgeries and labour and delivery inductions as per AHS policy.

Palliative Care and Long Term Care
Palliative Care and Long-Term Care services will be reviewed over the next two weeks. AHS is working to consider the impact of evacuation on any vulnerable population and to minimize the number of evacuations these populations experience. To ensure the comfort and safety of those palliative and long-term care residents, they will continue to be cared for in their temporary locations until it is time for them to be transported home. This timeline will be further refined based on future fire and smoke activity updates for the area.

Return of Patients Elsewhere
Residents from the area that are currently in acute care facilities elsewhere in the province and awaiting transfer back will return as it is safe to do so. Return decisions will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis and will consider patient-specific conditions such as respiratory conditions and other pertinent considerations. As per the normal process, patients presenting to the Northwest Health Centre may continue to be transferred out of the community for care based on their clinical needs and the fluid nature of the wildfire situation.

Any changes to service delivery in the area will continue to be informed by the information received from our partners related to wildfire conditions in the area.

Should you have any concerns related to service delivery timelines please reach out to Angie Mann, Area Director or e-mail at zeoc.north@albertahealthservices.ca

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook Page

 

June 22, 2019 11am

HIGHWAY UPDATE

Highway 35 and Highway 697 including the Ferry is open.

Due to smoke and changing conditions, please be aware that Highway status may vary throughout the day.

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook Page

 

June 22, 2019 11am

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 7 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 2 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 3 are Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 28 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. The fire saw minimal growth yesterday due to the cooler temperatures and the fire receiving some rain. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 33 firefighters, 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

***The next update will be at 8 p.m., or if conditions change.

Firefighters, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment are positioned throughout the High Level Forest Area to respond to any new wildfire starts. Please report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE.

Be prepared, stay informed.  Download the Alberta Emergency Alert App or visit their website by Clicking Here.  You can also check with the County, the Town or your local community to see if new alerts or evacuation orders have been issued.

WEATHER

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 21 degrees, humidity at 30-35%, winds E/SE 10-15 and a chance of thundershowers. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday all have rain in the forecast.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

There was very little change on the wildfire overnight.  There is a two hectare fire on the island in the Peace River and the spot fire on the east side of the river is five hectares.  The spot fire has not grown for a couple of days as crews are concentrating on extinguishing this area.

Since noon yesterday the base camp south of High Level received 4 mm of rain, Thompkins Landing received 10.5 mm, Rocky Lane received 6 mm, Watt Mountain received no rain and the west side of the fire also did not receive any rain.  As you can see, the rain is scattered.  This precipitation and the increased humidity means firefighters will have a good day cutting guard with heavy equipment for direct attack on the north part of the fire east of Highway 35.  We are still aggressively working on the fire, in a methodical way, extinguishing hotspots inward from the outside perimeter.  Structure protection is largely complete and crews are pursuing secondary assessment and patrolling.  RCMP continue to patrol in evacuated areas and manage traffic access.

The forecast for today is for temperatures in the low 20s, no further precipitation, and winds E/SE at 10-15 km/hr. More rain and cloud cover is in the forecast for Monday.  Under these conditions we do not expect the fire to grow.

  • The fire is 331, 946 hectares in size.
  • There are 1, 150 firefighters and personnel, 311 pieces of heavy equipment and 46 helicopters working on this fire.


THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

The fire received approximately 2-4 mm of rain yesterday, and minimal growth has been reported. The rain in combination with the cooler temperatures and higher humidity helped firefighters to continue to make great progress on the fire in all priority areas. Heavy equipment has completed a fireguard in priority areas as well.

  • There are 212 firefighters and personnel, 20 pieces of heavy equipment and 26 helicopters working on this fire.
  • The fire is 77, 468 hectares in size.

Source: srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 21, 2019 9:15 pm

Thanks to the hard work of firefighters and the favourable weather in the area, the evacuation order for Indian Cabins has been lifted.

Indian Cabin residents are now under an evacuation alert and must be ready to evacuate on short notice as the Jackpot Creek wildfire is still active.

An evacuation order continues to be in place for all residents located in the La Crete rural area east of Steep Hill Creek (Range Road 164), west of Range Road 150, south of the Peace River, north of Highway 697 including the hamlet of La Crete. An evacuation order is also in place for the Rocky Lane and High Level area north of the Peace River, west of Range Road 150, south of Highway 58, south and southeast of High Level including the Dene Tha’ First Nation’s Bushe River reserve, and Beaver First Nation’s Child Lake reserve.

Please continue to monitor emergencyalert.alberta.ca and the Mackenzie County Facebook page.

ESSENTIAL ITEMS

Mackenzie County worked with the following businesses to ensure you are being supplied with essential items. Pre-ordered items will be delivered to a delivery/pick-up site along Highway 697 (14427 Highway 697), on the south side. The access will be marked with signage. See the attached map.

Please contact them directly to place an order and to determine delivery times.

Apple Drugs (780) 928-3055
Super J Foods (780) 928-3890
La Crete Co-op (780) 928-3963
Norpine Auto (780) 928-3912
J-6 Freightways Inc. (780) 928-4200
La Crete Transport (79) Ltd. (780) 928-3989

Please follow their Facebook pages for the most current information.

PETS

Mackenzie County is working with pet owners to assist with the house pets that had to be left behind due to the evacuation.

Pets will either be fed and watered in place or collected and moved to a safe and secure location outside of the evacuation order zone.

If you have left your household pet behind, please contact 780-927-3718.

All information Mackenzie County Facebook page

 

June 21, 2019 9pm

There have been 88 wildfires this fire season in the Peace River Forest Area, all but three of which have now been extinguished:

Battle Complex- PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire remains BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

Firefighting efforts continued today using a combination of crews, heavy equipment and aerial resources to target and extinguish hot spots within the perimeter.  Damp, cool weather suppressed fire behaviour today allowing great progress on extinguishing hot spots.

PWF 070 remains classified as under control at 251 hectares in size west of Keg River. The fire has been completely surrounded by dozer guard.  Crews continue to patrol the fire

PWF 076 is under control at 37 hectares in size in the Cliffdale area (33 kms east of St. Isidore and 27 kms south of Cadotte Lake). Firefighters and air support continue to work on this wildfire.

PWF 086 is was discovered late yesterday afternoon and has been extinguished at 2.6 hectares in size west of Bison Lake.

 

June 21, 2019, 8pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE | JUNE 21, 2019 AT 8:00 PM

There are 7 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 3 are Out of Control (OC), 1 is Being Held (BH) and 3 are Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot Creek fires please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 196 hectares in size. There are 25 firefighters, with 4 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Out of Control (OC) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. The fire saw minimal growth again today due to the cooler temperatures and the fire receiving some rain. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. There are 37 firefighters, 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.

***The next update will be at 11 a.m., or if conditions change.

Firefighters, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment are positioned throughout the High Level Forest Area to respond to any new wildfire starts. Please report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE.

Be prepared, stay informed.  Download the Alberta Emergency Alert App or visit their website by Clicking Here.  You can also check with the County, the Town or your local community to see if new alerts or evacuation orders have been issued.

WEATHER

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 21 degrees, humidity at 30-35%, winds E/SE 10-15 and a chance of thundershowers. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday all have rain in the forecast.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

Mother Nature helped firefighters out today by sending rain to most parts of the wildfire. Between noon and 3 pm today Thompkins Landing received 10 mm of rain, Rocky Lane received 1.5 mm, near the TOHL received 3 mm, and the west part of the fire received no rain.

The rain and the increased humidity thwarted firefighters plans for ignition today and likely for tomorrow as well. Instead, firefighters made good progress working on the perimeter of the fire in all areas, concentrating on hotspots along Hwy 58, and on the spot fire on the east side of the Peace River. Burning is very deep in these areas.

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 21 degrees, humidity at 30-35%, winds E/SE 10-15 and a chance of thundershowers. Sunday, Monday and Tuesday all have rain in the forecast. Under these conditions there should not be any significant fire growth for the next five to seven days.

  • The fire is now 331, 245 hectares.
  • There are 816 firefighters and personnel, 52 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE UPDATE

The fire received approximately 2-4 mm of rain today, and minimal growth has been reported. The rain in combination with the cooler temperatures and higher humidity helped firefighters to continue to make great progress on the fire in all priority areas. Heavy equipment has completed a fireguard in priority areas as well.

  • The north part of the fire is approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.
  • There are 187 firefighters and personnel, 23 heavy equipment pieces and 25 helicopters working on this fire.
  • The fire is 77, 468 hectares in size.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

June 21, 2019, 10:30am

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 7 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 3 are Out of Control (OC), 1 is Being Held (BH) and 3 are Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot fire please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Being Held (BH) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 135 hectares in size. Heavy equipment has completed a fire guard around the west side of the fire and is now working on the south side. There are 24 firefighters, with 3 helicopters and heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Out of Control (OC) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is 216 hectares in size. The fire saw minimal growth yesterday, as airtankers and helicopters with water buckets were able to support firefighters on the ground. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fireguard around the fire perimeter. The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area. Alberta Transportation is on site monitoring smoke concerns on the highway. There are 30 firefighters, and 3 helicopters working on this fire.

Firefighters, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment are positioned throughout the High Level Forest Area to respond to any new wildfire starts. Please report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE.

Be prepared, stay informed.  Download the Alberta Emergency Alert App or visit their website by Clicking Here.  You can also check with the County, the Town or your local community to see if new alerts or evacuation orders have been issued.

WEATHER

The forecast for today is for a high of 20 degrees, 40-45% humidity, winds from the N/NE at 15-20 km/hr and a chance of showers. Saturday is going to be hot and drier with southeast winds.  Sunday is back to cool and showers. For those of you tracking rain, we need about 20 ml of widespread rain to make a difference on the wildfire.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

Despite the cooler, more humid overnight conditions, the wind stayed constant through the night and the fire continued to edge towards the Peace River. There was little overnight growth on the rest of the wildfire.

It’s raining on parts of the fire, but not everywhere. Near High Level and Watt Mountain have received about 3 ml, the west side of the fire received just over 2 ml, and Thompkins Landing and Rocky Lane areas have received no rain since noon yesterday.

If the area around Devil Lake stays rain free, and the humidity levels are optimal, we will proceed with the controlled ignition operation planned for this area today. With winds from the northeast, smoke will be visible in this area and drifting southwest.

  • A 20 person crew with pumps and hoses, axes and shovels, and support from helicopters with buckets is working to extinguish the spot fire on the east side of the Peace River.  They are making good progress. Dozer guard is in place across the narrow piece between the river, isolating the spot fire.
  • North of the river and ahead of the fire, heavy equipment continues to work to reinforce dozer guards tying into the gravel road network and from the River to the creek.
  • The north side of the fire is looking good. Crews were working on a few hotspots that were smoking along the highway today.
  • The fire was quiet on the west side yesterday. Crews and heavy equipment continue to work along this edge to remove vegetation from along the perimeter. Heavy equipment continued to work in the southwest corner strengthening the defensible space around the Chain Pond area.
  • The area around Paddle Prairie is smoky but ground fire is controlled. There is still a significant amount of smoke in the area and residents can expect to see smoke and smouldering for weeks to come. Trees are falling and present danger hazards due to root burn. Northerly winds for the next four days will knock trees down and blow lots of smoke into this community.
  • On the southeast part of the fire, east of the Peace River, there continues to be lots of smoke from burning in windrows and peaty soils.
  • The structure protection unit made good progress again today. They have completed or are in the process of completing structure assessment, deployment or preparation on the rural properties south of High Level, in the Devil Lake area, west of LaCrete, in the Blue Hills area and the Beaver First Nations area. Protection is complete at Norbord and we are working on Tolko. This unit will work through the night patrolling, deploying structure protection and doing FireSmart preparation work as they are able.
  • The fire is now 331, 245 hectares.
  • There are 816 firefighters and personnel, 52 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE 

Heavy equipment and firefighters have established a fireguard on the west, southeast and the west side of the Hay River on the north part of the fire. Air support continues to support firefighters by working to prevent the fire from reaching Highway 35, and with today’s weather conditions they continued to be effective. Firefighters continue to work on extinguishing hotspots on the west side of the fire in priority areas. The fire continues to hold in the southwest and on the north side, west of Hay River, with minimal growth reported today.

  • The north part of the fire is approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.
  • Indian cabins has not been impacted at this time and structure protection has been established.
  • There are 187 firefighters and personnel, 23 heavy equipment pieces and 25 helicopters working on this fire.

June 21, 2019, 8:17am

The emergency alert is being cancelled and the public from Trout Lake can now return home. Everyone from the Peerless Trout First Nation should continue to follow the local community Facebook page.

Peerless Trout First Nation website is www.ptfn.net andwww.facebook.com/peerlesstroutfirstnation/ is the Facebook page for this community.

Source: https://emergencyalert.alberta.ca

June 21, 2019, 8am

Source: https://wildfire.alberta.ca/files/firemap.pdf

https://wildfire.alberta.ca/wildfire-status/status-map.aspx

 

June 20, 2019 8:30pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 7 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 4 are Out of Control (OC), 1 is Being Held (BH) and 2 are Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg Creek and the Jackpot fire please see below.) Click here for a map of all fire locations and their status within the High Level Forest Area.

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as Out of Control (OC) and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake at 135 hectares in size. Winds are variable however the most active part of the fire is growing in a south direction, away from the community. Heavy equipment has completed a fire guard around the west side of the fire and is now working on the south side. Firefighters, along with air support from airtankers and helicopters with water buckets have been effective in limiting the fire spread in priority areas.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Out of Control (OC) and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is approximately 216 hectares in size. The fire saw minimal growth today, as airtankers and helicopters with water buckets were able to support firefighters on the ground. Heavy equipment continues to establish a fire guard around the fire perimeter. No communities are at risk at this time due to this wildfire. The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area. Alberta Transportation is on site monitoring smoke concerns on the highway. There are 30 firefighters, and two helicopters working on this fire.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE

Cooler weather, higher humidity and lighter winds mean the fire did not grow very much today, giving firefighters a chance to attack the fire more directly.

The east part of the fire keeps edging closer to the river, but very slowly.  There may be an opportunity for a controlled burn in this area when the winds switch to out of the southeast on Saturday. The purpose of this would be to remove the large chunk of forest along the river across from La Crete to protect the community.

A 20 person crew with pumps and hoses, axes and shovels, and support from helicopters with buckets is working to extinguish the spot fire on the east side of the Peace River.  They are making good progress.  Dozer guard is in place across the narrow piece between the river, isolating the spot fire.

  • North of the river and ahead of the fire, heavy equipment continues to work to reinforce dozer guards tying into the gravel road network and from the River to the creek. The plan for tomorrow is to conduct an ignition operation in this area, removing vegetation and limiting fire spread towards farms and residences, if weather conditions allow.
  • The north side of the fire is looking good. Crews were working on a few hotspots that were smoking along the highway today.
  • The fire was quiet on the west side today. Crews and heavy equipment continue to work along this edge to remove vegetation from along the perimeter. Heavy equipment continued to work in the southwest corner strengthening the defensible space around the Chain Pond area.
  • The area around Paddle Prairie is smoky but ground fire is controlled. There is still a significant amount of smoke in the area and residents can expect to see smoke and smouldering for weeks to come. Trees are falling and present danger hazards due to root burn.  Northerly winds for the next four days will knock trees down and blow lots of smoke into this community.
  • On the southeast part of the fire, east of the Peace River, there continues to be lots of smoke from burning in windrows and peaty soils. There were no spots across the river today.
  • The structure protection unit made good progress again today. They have completed or are in the process of completing structure assessment, deployment or preparation on the rural properties south of High Level, in the Devil Lake area, west of LaCrete, in the Blue Hills area and the Beaver First Nations area.  Protection is complete at Norbord and we are working on Tolko. This unit will work through the night patrolling, deploying structure protection and doing FireSmart preparation work as they are able.
  • The fire is now 331,034 hectares.
  • There are 851 firefighters and personnel, 46 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment.

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 20 degrees, 40-45% humidity, winds from the N/NE at 15-20 km/hr and a chance of showers.  Saturday is going to be hot and drier with southeast winds.  Sunday is back to cool and showers.  For those of you tracking rain, we need about 20 ml of widespread rain to make a difference on the wildfire.  Today we got about 1 ml in places and no rain in other places.


THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE

Heavy equipment and firefighters have established a fireguard on the west, southeast and the west side of the Hay River on the north part of the fire. Air support continues to support firefighters by working to prevent the fire from reaching Highway 35, and with today’s weather conditions they continued to be effective. Firefighters continue to work on extinguishing hotspots on the west side of the fire in priority areas. The fire continues to hold in the southwest and on the north side, west of Hay River, with minimal growth reported today.

  • The north part of the fire is approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.
  • Indian cabins has not been impacted at this time and structure protection has been established.
  • There are 187 firefighters and personnel, 23 heavy equipment pieces and 25 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 20, 2019 9pm

Peace River Wildfire Update

There have been 86 wildfires this fire season in the Peace River Forest Area, all but three of which have now been extinguished:

Battle Complex- PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire remains BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

Firefighting efforts continued today using a combination of crews, heavy equipment and aerial resources to target and extinguish hot spots within the perimeter.  Damp, cool weather suppressed fire behaviour today allowing great progress on extinguishing hot spots.

PWF 070 remains classified as under control at 251 hectares in size west of Keg River. The fire has been completely surrounded by dozer guard.  Crews continue to patrol the fire.

PWF 076 is under control at 37 hectares in size in the Cliffdale area (33 kms east of St. Isidore and 27 kms south of Cadotte Lake). Firefighters and air support continue to work on this wildfire.

PWF 086 is was discovered late yesterday afternoon and has been extinguished at 2.6 hectares in size west of Bison Lake.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

 

June 20, 2019, 1:30pm

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE 

There was little growth on the wildfire over night. Operations continue on the entire wildfire, as outlined in the last update. More detail on the active part of the fire is below.
Last night we received zero rain on the east side and negligible amounts on the rest of the wildfire.  Winds were steady overnight but did not move the fire very much.

The forecast for today is for a high of 20 degrees, 35-40% humidity, and winds N/NW 25-30 with gusts to 50 km/hr. The offsetting factor is that variable clouds are expected to shade the fire and suppress fire activity. If the sun shines and winds gust to 50 km/hr the fire will travel however if the cloud remains in place, we will have a good firefighting day.

  • Crews continue to work on the .5 hectare spot fire on the east side of the Peace River.  This spot has not grown since it was originally contained on June 18. Airtankers and helicopters with buckets initially worked this fire which is now being worked on by ground crews to extinguish all hotspots, flare ups and to remove potential for it to spread under windy conditions.  Heavy equipment put a guard in place across the narrow part of the oxbow, which we may use for ignition in the future.
  • Today structure protection efforts continue in the Blue Hills area and heavy equipment continues to work on line for a potential ignition for the area south of Devil Lake.
  • In addition to the work continuing on the rest of the wildfire, crews will be working on hotspots and flare ups along Highway 58 that are causing smoke issues on the road.
  • The fire is now 330,127 hectares.
  • There are 851 firefighters and personnel, 46 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment working on this fire.

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 7 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 4 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg and the Jackpot fire please see below.)

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as out of control and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake, north of the Fox Lake at 45 hectares in size. Winds are out of the northwest pushing the fire in a southeast direction. Firefighters along with air support from airtankers and a helicopter with a water bucket have responded to this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Out of Control and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is approximately 150 hectares in size.  The fire saw minimal growth, as airtankers were able to support firefighters on the ground. Heavy equipment is also working to establish a fire guard around the fire perimeter. No communities are at risk at this time due to this wildfire. The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area. Alberta Transportation is on site monitoring smoke concerns on the highway. There are 25 firefighters, two helicopters and airtankers working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF090, is classified as Being Held at 6 hectares.  There are 9 firefighters and 1 helicopter is working towards extinguishing this fire. The fire is located 35 km northeast of Meander River.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 20, 2019, 1:00pm

The La Crete Ferry is now running.

 

Jun 20, 2019, 11:30am

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE (11:00 AM)

There are 7 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 4 are Out of Control (OC), 2 are Being Held (BH) and 1 is Under Control (UC). (For info regarding Chuckegg and the Jackpot fire please see below.)

Wildfires of note;

  • Fire number, HWF091, is classified as out of control and is located approximately 5 km southeast of the community of Fox Lake, north of the Fox Lake at 20 hectares in size. Winds are out of the northwest pushing the fire in a southeast direction. Firefighters along with air support from airtankers and a helicopter with a water bucket have responded to this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Out of Control and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is approximately 150 hectares in size.  The fire saw minimal growth, as airtankers were able to support firefighters on the ground. Heavy equipment is also working to establish a fire guard around the fire perimeter. No communities are at risk at this time due to this wildfire. The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area. Alberta Transportation is on site monitoring smoke concerns on the highway. There are 25 firefighters, two helicopters and airtankers working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF090, is classified as Being Held at 6 hectares.  There are 9 firefighters and 1 helicopter is working towards extinguishing this fire. The fire is located 35 km northeast of Meander River.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE (11:00 AM)

Heavy equipment and firefighters have established a fireguard on the southeast side of the fire as well as the west side of the Hay River on the north part of the fire.  Air support continues to support firefighters by working to prevent the fire from reaching Highway 35, and with current conditions they continue to be effective. Firefighters are working on extinguishing hotspots on the west side of the fire in priority areas. The fire continues to hold in the southwest and on the north side, west of Hay River.

  • The west side of the fire is currently burning away from Highway 35. The north part of the fire is approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.
  • The weather forecast for today is calling for northwest winds therefore, the fire is expected to grow in an east to southeast direction. Indian cabins has not been impacted at this time and structure protection has been established.
  • There are 137 firefighters and personnel, 23 heavy equipment pieces and 14 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 20, 2019, 11:00am

We are now only two hours away from when the evacuation order officially is rescinded for Paddle Prairie.
The statement from the settlement is below.

 

June 19, 2019, 9:00pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA UPDATE 

There are 5 active wildfires in the High Level Area. Of these fires; 3 are Out of Control (OC), 1 is Being Held (BH) and one is Under Control (UC).

  • Fire number, HWF088, is classified as Out of Control and is located 10 km northwest of Hutch Lake. This fire is approximately 150 hectares in size.  The fire saw minimal growth, as airtankers were able to support firefighters on the ground. Heavy equipment is also working to establish a fire guard around the fire perimeter. No communities are at risk at this time due to this wildfire. The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area. Alberta Transportation is on site monitoring smoke concerns on the highway. There are 25 firefighters, two helicopters and airtankers working on this fire.
  • Fire number, HWF090, is classified as Being Held at 6 hectares.  There are 9 firefighters and 1 helicopter is working towards extinguishing this fire. The fire is located 35 km northeast of Meander River.

CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE UPDATE

The east side of the fire, north of the Peace River has not experienced as much growth as predicted due to calmer winds.  The fire pushed a bit north and is now about 5 km south of Devil Lake and about 3 km southwest of Surette Lake. Heavy equipment was been hard at work to create dozer guards tying in to the gravel road network. They have done a good job of creating a line of defense from just south of the Town of High Level at Highway 35 to south of Eleske.

On the east side, the fire has advanced about a kilometer northeast and about three kilometers east.  Good progress was made on the spot fire that crossed the river late last night. Tankers worked on this spot fire this morning, laying retardant on both sides of the river.  Helicopters with buckets worked the fire, and heavy equipment put a dozer guard in across the oxbow to help prevent spread or to back burn from under the right conditions. The fire is about three kilometers back from the river, at the closest point, west of La Crete.  The forecast for tomorrow is calling for strong and gusty west winds these conditions could challenge firefighters.

  • The north side of the fire is looking good. There is some big timber in this area, with deep burning conditions.  Crews are making steady progress in this area north of Highway 58.  North winds will be favorable for this area for the next few days.
  • The fire was quieter on the west side today.  Crews and heavy equipment continue to work along this edge to remove vegetation from along the perimeter.  Heavy equipment continued to work in the southwest corner strengthening the defensible space around the Chain Pond area. Winds will be favorable in this area tomorrow, however winds will switch to N/NE on Sat and Sun.
  • The area around Paddle Prairie is smoky but ground fire is under control.  There is still a significant amount of smoke in the area and residents can expect to see smoke and smouldering hotspots for weeks to come. Trees are falling and present danger hazards due to root burn. Northerly winds for the next four days may knock trees down and blow smoke into this community.
  • On the southeast part of the fire, east of the Peace River, there continues to be lots of smoke from burning in windrows and peaty soils.  There were no spots across the river so far today.  This area is now under Evacuation Order.  With winds from the N/NW at 20 gusting to 35-45 overnight, we are concerned about the potential for the fire to cross the river or spot across into this area.  In addition to strong overnight winds, the winds from tomorrow are predicted to be N/NW 25 to 35 gusting to 50 km/hr.  This area will be under careful scrutiny.
  • The structure protection unit made good progress again today.  They have completed or are in the process of completing structure assessment, deployment or preparation on the rural properties south of High Level, in the Devil Lake area, west of LaCrete, in the Blue Hills area and the Beaver First Nations area.  Heavy water protection was completed at Norbord yesterday and we are working on Tolko today.  This unit will work through the night patrolling and deploying structure protection.
  • The fire is now 325, 334 hectares.
  • There are 851 firefighters and personnel, 46 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE | JUNE 19, 2019 9:00 PM

Heavy equipment and firefighters have established a fireguard on the southeast side of the fire.  Air support has been supporting firefighters by working to prevent the fire from reaching Highway 35, and with conditions today were effective in limiting fire spread. Firefighters are working on extinguishing hotspots on the west side of the fire. The fire continues to hold in the southwest and on the north side, west of Hay River.

  • The west side of the fire is currently burning away from Highway 35. The north part of the fire is approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.
  • The weather forecast for tomorrow is calling for northwest winds therefore, the fire is expected to grow in an east to southeast direction tomorrow. Indian cabins has not been impacted at this time and structure protection has been established.
  • There are 137 firefighters and personnel, 23 heavy equipment pieces and 14 helicopters working on this fire.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

Peace River area Wildfire Update

There have been 86 wildfires this fire season in the Peace River Forest Area, all but three of which have now been extinguished:

Battle Complex- PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire remains BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

Firefighters, heavy equipment and helicopters continue to work to identify and extinguish hot spots within the perimeter of this fire.  Fire behavior was relatively quiet today with some small areas of previously unburnt vegetation burning this afternoon.  The fire stayed within the dozer guard again today.

PWF 070 remains classified as under control at 251 hectares in size west of Keg River. The fire has been completely surrounded by dozer guard.  Crews continue to patrol the fire.

PWF 076 is under control at 37 hectares in size in the Cliffdale area (33 kms east of St. Isidore and 27 kms south of Cadotte Lake). Firefighters and air support continue to work on this wildfire.

PWF 086 is was discovered late yesterday afternoon and has been extinguished at 2.6 hectares in size west of Bison Lake.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

 

June 19, 2019 4:20pm

June 19, 2019, at 4:12 PM
MANDATORY EVACUATION ORDER

An evacuation order has been issued for all residents located north of Highway 697, south of the Peace River and west of Steep Hill Creek (Range Road 164).

EVERYONE IN THE AREA MUST IMMEDIATELY EVACUATE.

ALL AFFECTED RESIDENTS MUST REPORT AND REGISTER AT THE RECEPTION CENTRE IN PERSON OR BY CALLING (780) 927-3718.

The designated Reception Centre is located at:

Fort Vermilion Mackenzie County Office
4511-46 Ave, Fort Vermilion, Alberta

We encourage you to take your RV or holiday trailer. If you require parking for your RV or holiday trailer, please call the Reception Centre.

Do not stay in an evacuation alert area. Please notify your neighbours.

Bring medication, blankets, sleeping bags, personal items and identification if possible.

For additional information listen to local community radio broadcast or follow Mackenzie County’s Facebook page.

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook page

June 19, 2019 1pm

McMillan Complex Wildfire update

Cooler conditions should help reduce fire behaviour today. Temperatures are expected to reach 19 degrees with a relative humidity of 45%. Winds will be coming from the northwest at 20km/hr., meaning the southeast portion of the fire may experience smoky conditions.

Dozer guard is being built around the fingers in the north/northwest section of the fire.

Structure protection is being taken off the Wabasca area, as containment lines are holding well and showing limited fire activity.

Crews, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment will continue tightening up containment lines and securing the fire’s perimeter.

Did you know?

Over 170 km of containment line has been established on this complex.

There are 549 firefighters and support staff, 45 helicopters, airtankers, and 62 pieces of heavy equipment fighting this wildfire.

We have been lucky enough to receive support from firefighters and support staff from British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, Parks Canada, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Nevada and Oregon. Thank you to everyone who has assisted in our operations; the support has been incredible!

The McMillan Complex remains approximately:

  • 9.4 kilometres north of Wabasca No. 166C
  • 4.9 and 3.3 kilometres west of Wabasca No. 166B and 166D
  • 26.5 kilometres northeast of Marten Beach
  • 32.8 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake
  • 6 kilometres southeast of Trout Lake

Of the four wildfires in the McMillan Complex, three are under control and one is out of control. SWF-049 has burned into SWF-079 as these fires were in close proximity to each other.
Note: wildfire sizes are subject to change as more accurate readings of the perimeter become available.

SWF-049 is 276,502 hectares and is classified as out of control.

SWF-090 is 187 hectares and is classified as under control.

SWF-078 is 137 hectares and is classified as under control.

SWF-099 is 2 hectares and is classified as under control.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update

June 19, 2019 11:30 am

HIGH LEVEL AREA UPDATE | June 19, 2019 11:30 a.m

There are 6 active wildfires in the High Level Area.  3 are out of control, 2 are held being and one is under control.

HWF088 is classified as Out of Control and located on the west side of Hutch Lake and is estimated at 100 hectares.  No communities are at risk at this time due to this wildfire.  The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area.  Transportation is on site monitoring  smoke. There are 25 firefighters, two helicopters and airtanker operations working on this fire.

HWF089 is Being Held and is located on the east side of highway 35 North and is approximately 35 km south of Meander River.  The fire is estimated at 12 hectares.  Nine firefighters and one helicopter is planned working towards extinguishing this fire.

HWF090 is classified as Being Held at 12 hectares.  Nine firefighters and one helicopter is working towards extinguishing this fire early in the morning.  The fire is located 35 km northeast of Meander River.


THE CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE | June 19, 2019 11:30 a.m

There was a 0.5 hectare spot across the Peace River last night in the oxbow northwest of Peace River.  Helicopters with buckets were quick to work on this spot fire.  Airtankers were unable to drop retardant in this area due to visibility issues with the smoke last night.  Helicopters with buckets returned to work on this spot early this morning. We have heavy equipment in place and are working on a plan to create breaks in this area to restrict forward spread of the fire.

Structure protection is a priority and has been deployed in La Crete and is under examination for Blue Hills. Heavy equipment is also staged in both of these areas.  A trigger point back of the river in the Blue Hills area has been established and we are watching that carefully.  Residents in the area should be aware of the potential for embers to spot across the river in the afternoon winds.

This portion of the fire didn’t travel much further north and remains south of Devil Lake.  Structure protection is in place on southern rural residents in this area and some clean up has been done with heavy equipment.  Beaver Nation structure protection will be looked at today as well.

The fire is burning at the river by the oxbow and is about six km back from the river in a line directly west of La Crete.  The fire is about six km south of Devil Lake and about three km south of Surette Lake.

Operations on the rest of the wildfire continue as outlined in the update from last night.

Today’s concern is the strong and gusty winds.

The forecast for today is for a high of 21 degrees, 35% humidity, 50% cloud cover and South winds now switching to N/NW and continuing NW strong and gusty until Saturday.

The fire is now 325,353 hectares. Current map is attached.

There are 851 firefighters and personnel, 52 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE | June 19, 2019 11:30 a.m

Heavy equipment and firefighters have established fireguard on the southeast side of the fire.  Air support is working towards preventing the fire from reaching Highway 35. Firefighters are working on hotspots on the west side of the fire today.

The fire is holding in the southwest.  Also holding on the north side, west of Hay River.

The west side of the fire is currently burning away from Highway 35.

The north part of the fire is now approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.

Due to heavy smoke throughout yesterday, firefighters have not been able to assess the north east boundary. The fire is expected to keep moving to the east and northeast direction but has not reached Indian Cabins at this time.

There are 116 firefighters and support staff, 20 helicopters and 15 pieces of heavy equipment working on this fire.

The last recorded size is 75,680 hectares.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

June 19, 2019 – 8am

Leslie Lozinski, Wildfire Information Officer, talks to “The Morning Wheelhouse”…

She gives an update to the Chuckegg Creek Fire near High Level.

 

June 18, 2019 9pm

CURRENT HIGH LEVEL AREA UPDATE

There have been three new wildfire starts in the High Level Area today.

HWF088 is classified as Out of Control and located on the west side of Hutch Lake and is estimated at 50 hectares.  No communities are at risk at this time due to this wildfire.  The fire is located 25 km southeast of Meander River, 44 km northwest from the Town of High Level/Bushe and approximately 20 km northwest from Hutch Lake Cabin area.  Transportation is on site and piloting vehicles through due to smoke concerns.  There are 3 crews, two helicopters and early morning tanker operations planned to work on this fire so long as visibility allows.

HWF089 is Being Held and is located on the east side of highway 35 North and is approximately 35 km south of Meander River.  The fire is estimated at 1.5 hectares.  One crew and one helicopter is planned to work towards extinguishing this fire early in the morning.

HWF090 is classified as Being Held at 1.5 hectares.  One crew and one helicopter is planned to work towards extinguishing this fire early in the morning.  The fire is located 35 km northeast of Meander River.


THE CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE 

  • Heavy smoke on the east half of the fire impeded air operations until about 3 pm today.  The flipside to the visibility issues is that the smoke shaded out the east side of the fire, slowing down fire spread.  When the smoke cleared and the sun came out, fire activity increased.  Afternoon winds and embedded thundershowers with associated wind, further increased fire activity, pushing the fire eastward towards the Peace River and La Crete.  As of 1900 the fire had not jumped the River and there were no spot fires across the river.  Airtankers tried to assist by dropping retardant on the east side of the Peace River, to prevent spot fires and forward progression of the fire towards La Crete, however smoke was too heavy and the planes could not see their targets. Helicopters with buckets, ground crews and heavy equipment are ready to action any new fires in this area, visibility permitting.  The fire is about 2 km back from the river at the oxbow north of La Crete, and about 10 km back from the river in a line directly west of La Crete.  Due to smoky conditions we have not been able to get a good look at the north head of this part of the wildfire.
  • The north side of the fire continues to look quite good. There is some big timber in this area, with deep burning conditions.  Crews are making steady progress in this area north of Highway 58.
  • The fire was active on the west side today.  Fingers from yesterday burned in a northward direction.  West winds in the afternoon allowed us to conduct some successful ignitions, as we continue to clean up the perimeter and remove vegetation.
  • On the southwest corner, heavy equipment continued to tie in to Chain Pond and create a defensible space in that area.
  • Paddle Prairie, under bright sun and strong and gusty winds, held it’s perimeter today.  Smoke is an issue in this area, and will be for a few days to come with westerly winds.  There are a couple of persistent hotspots that crews are working on.  There is little risk of fire spread in this area.
  • On the south east part of the fire, east of the Peace River, there was lots of smoke today burning in windrows and peaty soils.  There were no spots across the river and no threat of the fire escaping in this area.
  • The structure protection unit made good progress today.  They have completed or are in the process of completing structure assessment, deployment or preparation on the rural properties south of High Level, in the Devil Lake area, as well as west of LaCrete.  Work is underway for heavy water protection of Norbord and Tolko.  Tomorrow this group will investigate values potentially at risk in the Blue Hills area.  This unit will work through the night patrolling and deploying structure protection.

The fire is now 324,518 hectares. Current map is attached.

There are 851 firefighters and personnel, 52 helicopters, 153 pieces of heavy equipment.

Be prepared.  Stay informed.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE 

Good progress on most of Jackpot Creek Wildfire today except for the northeast corner.  We expect that the fire has grown in the northeast but due to heavy smoke, firefighters could not get a good assessment.

The fire is holding in the southwest.  Also holding on the north side, west of Hay River.

Heavy equipment and firefighters have built 1.3 kilometers of dozer guard on the south east side of the fire.  Air support is working towards preventing the fire from reaching Highway 35.

The west side of the fire is currently burning away from Highway 35.

The north finger of the fire is now approximately 11 km from the Northwest Territories border.

Due to heavy smoke throughout the day, firefighters have not been able to assess the north east boundary. The fire is expected to keep moving to the east and northeast direction but has not reached Indian Cabins at this time.

  • There are 116 firefighters and support staff, 20 helicopters and 15 pieces of heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • The last recorded size is 75,680 hectares.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

June 18, 2019 9pm

McMillan Complex Wildfire update 

The McMillan Complex experienced moderate fire behaviour today along the north and northwest sections of the fire. The three excursions from yesterday were slightly active, producing small hot spots at the head of the fire, which were successfully actioned by crews, airtankers and helicopters. This area received minimal rainfall, keeping the fire active and smoky. The focus will remain on the finger closest to the community of Trout Lake. Dozer guard is being built along the northeast finger to limit the fire’s spread into surrounding structures and communities.

Weather for tomorrow looks favourable. Temperatures are expected to reach 17 degrees with a relative humidity of 40% and winds coming from the northwest at 25km/hr, gusting to 40km/hr. As a result, the Wabasca area may experience smoky conditions. Thursday will bring slightly warmer conditions, reaching 22 degrees and a relative humidity of 35%. Winds will be from the north at 30-35km/hr, gusting to 50km/hr. Smoke should decrease towards the Wabasca area, but may be visible in communities to the south.

Strong work from firefighters, heavy equipment and air support has kept the rest of the fire’s perimeter quiet. Crews continue to tighten up containment lines as tomorrow’s predicted wind shift will test the existing southeast boundaries.

Did you know?
In wildfire terms, a finger refers to the spread of a fire in a linear direction, extending off from the main body of the fire. These fingers have the potential to create rapid spread, but provide an opportunity to redirect or guide the fire away from priority areas.

The head of the fire refers to the fastest spreading part of the fire’s perimeter, and usually is of primary interest.

The fire will be scanned again tonight to determine hot spots and identify where efforts need to be focused for firefighters, air support and heavy equipment.

There are 545 firefighters and support staff, 45 helicopters, airtankers, and 62 pieces of heavy equipment fighting this wildfire.

We have been lucky enough to receive support from firefighters and support staff from British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, Parks Canada, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Nevada and Oregon. Thank you to everyone who has assisted in our operations; the support has been incredible!

The McMillan Complex remains approximately:

  • 4.9 and 3.3 kilometres west of Wabasca No. 166B and 166D
  • 26.5 kilometres northeast of Marten Beach
  • 32.8 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake
  • 6 kilometres southeast of Trout Lake

Of the four wildfires in the McMillan Complex, three are under control and one is out of control. SWF-049 has burned into SWF-079 as these fires were in close proximity to each other.
Note: wildfire sizes are subject to change as more accurate readings of the perimeter become available.

SWF-049 is 274,861 hectares and is classified as out of control.

SWF-090 is 187 hectares and is classified as under control.

SWF-078 is 137 hectares and is classified as under control.

SWF-099 is 2 hectares and is classified as under control.

Strong and gusty winds are expected for Wednesday. Under these dry and windy conditions, a fire will ignite easily and spread very quickly. Firefighters are urging everyone to use caution and report wildfires immediately by calling 310-FIRE or #FIRE on your cell phone.

There is a chance of thunderstorms with lightning again  on Wednesday. Firefighters in helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment are ready to fight any new wildfires that may start.

We have not received enough rain to bring long term relief to the dry conditions.The Fire Ban and OHV Restriction remain in place for areas north of Lesser Slave Lake. To view a map and details regarding the Fire Ban/OHV restriction visit www.albertafirebans.ca.

Weather

For Wednesday the temperature will be 15 to 19 degrees. Winds will be from the northwest 20 kilometres per hour gusting up to 35. There is a chance of thunderstorms with lightning.

Smoky conditions are expected to continue.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update

 

June 18, 2019, 5:56pm

 

June 18, 2019, 5:40pm

Unfortunately, 5 new Out of Control Wildfires have started in Northern Alberta today.

Get the latest fire map HERE

or download the AB WILDFIRE APP

 

June 18, 2019, 4:00pm

Message from Mackenzie County:

“The mandatory evacuation remains in effect, this means that residents are not permitted to re-enter or to stay in their homes. The services available in La Crete were requested to open to support the firefighting efforts and emergency staff. RCMP will be sending additional resources to ensure that only previously approved people/services are within the community.

All residents within the mandatory evacuation areas MUST register with the Emergency Coordination Centre at (780) 927-3718 which is open 24 hours. The wildfire is unpredictable and dangerous. Should the threat become imminent and you haven’t left your home, emergency personnel cannot ensure your safety.”

June 18, 2019, 3:30pm

June 18, 2019, 1:00pm

McMillan Complex Wildfire update 

The north and northwest portions of the fire continued to challenge resources last night, as extreme fire behaviour enabled the fire to grow. Three new excursions grew from the front of the fire, making suppression efforts difficult in that area. Firefighting efforts will be focused on limiting the spread towards identified structures and surrounding communities. The fire is approximately 6km southeast from the community of Trout Lake.

Firefighters, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment will continue working on the west, south and east portions of the fire to solidify the perimeter. Heavy equipment reclamation will look to begin in targeted areas of minimal fire activity.

Weather conditions look more favourable today as temperatures should reach 19 degrees on the fire with a relative humidity of 40% and winds from the west/southwest at 25km/hr gusting to 40km/hr. Parts of the fire saw some rainfall this morning, although it didn’t cover the entire area. Wednesday looks to bring cooler temperatures again, with a forecast of 19 degrees, a relative humidity of 40% and winds coming from the northwest at 20km/hr, gusting to 40km/hr. The shift in wind conditions should help firefighting efforts along the north and northwest edges, as the fire will likely burn back into itself, pushing the fire away from structures and communities.

Did you know?

Every effort must be made to restore fireline construction areas to provincial standards. The reclamation process addresses topography, vegetation and soil texture to ensure sustainable growth back into those affected areas.

Structure protection remains in place in the communities of Trout Lake, Wabasca, and Bigstone Cree Nation.

There are 562 firefighters and support staff, 45 helicopters, airtankers, and 41 pieces of heavy equipment fighting this wildfire.

We have been lucky enough to receive support from firefighters and support staff from British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Ontario, New Brunswick, Parks Canada, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Nevada and Oregon. Thank you to everyone who has assisted in our operations; the support has been incredible!

SWF-049 remains approximately:

  • 4.9 and 3.3 kilometres west of Wabasca No. 166B and 166D
  • 26.5 kilometres northeast of Marten Beach
  • 32.8 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake
  • 6 kilometres southeast of Trout Lake

Of the three wildfires in the McMillan Complex, two are under control and one is out of control. SWF-049 has burned into SWF-079 as these fires were in close proximity to each other.
Note: wildfire sizes are subject to change as more accurate readings of the perimeter become available.

SWF-049 is 274,861 hectares and is classified as out of control.

SWF-078 is 137 hectares and is classified as under control.

SWF-099 is 2 hectares and is classified as under control.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update

 

June 18, 2019, 12:30pm

Update from Agriculture and Forestry

THE CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE

The Chuckegg Creek wildfire is now just under 324,209 hectares.  The fire moved about 15 km in total yesterday. A current map is attached.

Winds kept the fire active overnight however the fire did not reach Devil Lake and it did not reach the Peace River.  The fire is about 10 km north of the Boyer River cell tower and about 10 km west of the Peace River in a line directly west of La Crete.  There was minimal growth on other areas of the fire overnight.  Reports of spot fires outside the fire perimeter in the Blue Hills area are incorrect.  Although there is a lot of smoke in this area, windrows and other burning trees are well within the fire perimeter.

Visibility on the east side of the fire is limited this morning however we have crews on the ground and heavy equipment deployment and structure protection assessment are underway in the Le Crete area as well as areas south of High Level.

Crews will continue to secure the north perimeter today.  Crews on the west side will be watching for prime opportunities under west winds today to conduct ignition operations to clean up the perimeter and remove vegetation along control lines.

We continue to mop up hotspots along the south side of the fire in anticipation of residents returning to Paddle Prairie. Heavy equipment continues to work to strengthen the control line that ties in to Chain Ponds to further protect the south side from growth from NW winds.

The forecast for today is for a high of 21 degrees, 40% humidity, and winds W25 gusting to 45 km/hr.  There is a slight chance of rain this afternoon, however it is going to take substantial rain (more than 20 ml) to make even a slight difference to fire intensity.  These are the driest conditions this area has seen in more than 40 years.  The winds will be the factor this afternoon and we expect the fire to travel eastward with significant risk of spotting in the gusty winds.

This fire has 890 firefighters and personnel, 46 helicopters and 153 pieces of heavy equipment working on this wildfire.

 

June 18, 2019 10:30am

Chuckegg Creek Wildfire update… the following was posted on the Town of High Level Facebook Page…

The Wildfire did creep north a few kilometers over night, but is not an immediate threat to the Town of High Level. Winds today are expected from the southwest, which will move the fire to the northeast. This will slow the fires approach to High Level, but poses a serious threat to portions of the Mackenzie County.

If weather conditions permit, Alberta Wildfire has plans to create fire guards and possibly a controlled burn to remove fire fuels south of High Level. We will inform the public if these procedures take place.

 

June 18, 2019, 9am

Source: wildfire.ab.ca

June 17, 2019, 11:05pm

Mandatory Evacuation for 2 Areas
Mackenzie County

Mandatory evacuations have been issued for residents in two areas within Mackenzie County due to wildfire threat:

All residents located in the Rocky Lane and High Level area north of the Peace River, west of Range Road 150, south of Highway 58, south and southeast of High Level including the Dene Tha’ First Nation’s Bushe River reserve, and Beaver First Nation’s Child Lake reserve and Boyer River reserve must evacuate immediately.

AND

All residents located in the La Crete rural area east of Steep Hill Creek (Range Road 164), west of Range Road 150, south of the Peace River, north of Highway 697 including the hamlet of La Crete must evacuate immediately.

Town of High Level is not included in the mandatory evacuation area.

MACKENZIE COUNTY RECEPTION CENTRE

All residents that require lodging are required to register at the designated Reception Centre located at the:

Fort Vermilion Mackenzie County Office
4511-46 Ave, Fort Vermilion, Alberta

ALL AFFECTED RESIDENTS ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT AND REGISTER AT THE RECEPTION CENTRE IN PERSON OR BY CALLING (780) 927-3718.

Bushe River evacuees please register at the Four Chiefs Complex in Bushe River.

Beaver First Nation evacuees for more information, please follow the Beaver First Nation Facebook page or contact:
Chief Trevor Mercredi – 780-247-0851
Director of Emergency Management – Riel Chonkolay 780-247-4444
Deputy Director of Emergency Management – Daphne Lizotte 780-247-0010

We encourage you to take your RV or holiday trailer. If you require parking for your RV or holiday trailer, please call the Reception Centre.

Considering that High Level is within the evacuation alert area, they will not be setting up a reception centre. Do not stay in an evacuation alert area.

Bring medication, blankets, sleeping bags, personal items and identification if possible.

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook Page

 

June 17, 2019, 9:30pm

Dene Tha’ First Nation Chief and Council has declared a State of Local Emergency and Evacuation for the Bushe River IR#207, in effect now.

 

June 17, 2019, 9:30pm

Update courtesy of Agriculture and Forestry:

Battle Complex: PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire is now BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

South of the Hotchkiss River crews continued to mop up to 100 feet from fire edge, and patrolled areas previously worked.  In addition, crews continue to target scan results.

Conditions were hot and dry with temperatures reaching 28 C with a 25% relative humidity. Winds were southeast, switching southwest at 20 kpm, gusting to 40 kpm.

Tonight a cold front is expected to pass over reducing temperatures for tomorrow. A forecast high of 19 C with a relative humidity of 35% and wind WSW 25 kph gusting to 40 kph. Fire activity may increase due to wind.

A transition will take place tomorrow with an Alberta team taking over for the BC Incident Management Team. The BC Team will be leaving the fire site on Tuesday morning.

There are 319 firefighters and support staff, 14 helicopters and 41 pieces of heavy equipment working on this complex.

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

 

June 17, 2019 9:15pm

Chuckegg Creek & Jackpot Wildfire updates

An evacuation alert is in place for everyone in Rocky Lane and High Level north of the Peace River, west of RR 150 south of Hwy 58, the Town of High Level, south and southeast of the Town including the Dene Tha First Nations, Bushe River Reserve, and Beaver First Nations Child Lake Reserve.  Additionally, all residents located in the Blue Hills area north of TWP Road 1010, west of RR 150, south of the Peace River including the Hamlet of La Crete.

Please check with the County or the Town or your local community to see if this alert upgrades to an evacuation order in the coming hours.

The fire is currently about six kilometers north of the Boyer River cell tower and about 10 km west of La Crete.  Winds overnight are forecast to be SW 15-20 km/hr.  The fire will continue to move throughout the night, as it did last night.  Be prepared.  Stay informed.

Today was a very active fire day.

  • On the north side we had a spot fire cross the guard.  Heavy equipment and ground crews were quick to action this escapee and were able to extinguish it.  Crews continue to work along the north perimeter.  This is slow work as the burning is very deep into the ground.
  • On the west side, there was active burning on three fingers burning in a W/NW direction.  Heavy equipment is working to finish tying in the guard to Chain Pond.  We are waiting to take advantage of optimal conditions for a back burn in this area.
  • On the south side of the fire crews, supported by helicopters with buckets, continued to extinguish hotspots and work along the roadways to make the Paddle Prairie community safe for re-entry.  There is still a fair amount of fire and smoke in this area as unburned islands of trees within the fire perimeter light up.
  • On the southeast part of the fire there was lots of smoke visible from smouldering windrows and other burning vegetation however the fire remained behind containment lines in this area.
  • On the east part of the fire, north of the Peace River, the fire grew in a north/northeast direction today.  At 5:00 pm today the fire was about six km north of the Boyer River cell tower and about 10 km back from the river directly west of La Crete.  We completed a successful back burn along the Peace River.  The intent was to remove this vegetation to reduce the risk of the fire spotting across the river and into Blue Hills when the wind changes to westerly.  (For your information, the poplar in that ignition area burned clean and hot which demonstrates just how dry and volatile the forest is.  Typically poplar, with more moisture than coniferous trees, burns slower.  That’s not the case under current conditions. )  We also completed some back burning ahead of this part of the fire to try to control the forward spread, as well as to the east of the fire.
  • Further north along the east side, dozers are working to create a guard to tie in to a roadway, and will work through the night if safe to do so, and return early tomorrow morning, to strengthen the roadway as it leads towards Devil Lake.
  • Sprinkler protection is being deployed on various values in the Devil Lake area and in other areas.
  • The airtankers, helicopters, heavy equipment and ground crews will be working early in the morning, smoke permitting.

For tonight we expect only a moderate relative humidity recovery of 60-70%.  Winds are expected to continue throughout the night at SW 15-20 km/hr.  This means the fire will continue to travel all night, just like last night.  The fire could travel about 10 km depending on the conditions.

The forecast for tomorrow is for a high of 21 degrees, 40% humidity, and winds W25 gusting to 45 km/hr.  There is a slight chance of rain tomorrow afternoon, however it is going to take substantial rain (more than 20 ml) to make even a slight difference to fire intensity.  These are the driest conditions this area has seen in more than 40 years.  The winds will be the factor tomorrow and we expect the fire to travel in an easterly direction with significant risk of spotting up to 2 km or more in the gusty winds.

The fire is currently 6 km north of the Boyer River cell tower and 10 km west of La Crete.

  • The fire is currently just under 300,000 hectares
  • We have 890 firefighters and personnel, 46 helicopters and 153 pieces of heavy equipment working on this wildfire.

THE JACKPOT CREEK FIRE
The southern perimeter west of the highway is holding well and crews are pushing further into the interior. On the southern side, east of the highway, dozers have reached the perimeter and have started establishing dozer guard. Fireguard continues to be built up the west side of the northern excursion on the east side of the Hay river. New fireguard is being established in the north to tie off from the highway to the Hay river. Highway remains open. Indian Cabins is evacuated but has not yet been impacted by the fire

  • There are 116 firefighters and support staff, 11 helicopters and 2 pieces of heavy equipment working on this fire.
  • The last recorded size is 75,680 hectares.

Source: srd.web.alberta.ca

 

June 17, 2019 9pm

McMillan Wildfire Complex update

Extreme fire behaviour continued to challenge firefighters and air support throughout the afternoon, as the north and northwest portions of the fire remained the most active. Helicopters and airtankers were beyond resources in that area, meaning the fire behaviour was too intense for effective suppression efforts on the front of the fire. Action was limited to steering the fire away from the community of Trout Lake. The fire is approximately 6km southeast from the community of Trout Lake.

Protecting human life and structures remains a top priority. As a result, an evacuation order has been placed on Peerless Trout First Nation. For more information, visit www.emergencyalert.alberta.ca or download the Alberta Emergency Alert app. You can also visit www.facebook.com/peerlesstroutfirstnation/ for further community updates.

Aside from the north and northwest portions, fire activity remained minimal with minor hot spots identified and actioned. The southeast section of the perimeter held near Wabasca and continues to pose no imminent threat at this time. Firefighters, helicopters, airtankers and heavy equipment will maintain strategic positioning to action any new fire activity that arises.

Overnight should see a slight change in weather conditions. A cold front will begin to approach the fire area early Tuesday morning, bringing a slight change in wind direction. The winds are expected to shift from the southeast and move towards the southwest, therefore smoke may drift towards the northeast portion towards Teepee Lake. There are no immediate communities affected with this expected shift.

Temperatures tomorrow should reach 19 degrees on the fire with a relative humidity of 40% and winds from the west/southwest at 25km/hr gusting to 40km/hr. Parts of the fire may see rainfall, although it’s not expected to hit the entire area. Wednesday looks to bring cooler temperatures again, with a forecast of 19 degrees, a relative humidity of 35% and winds coming from the northwest at 20km/hr, gusting to 35km/hr.

Source: srd.web.alberta.ca

 

June 17, 2019 8pm

Source: https://wildfire.alberta.ca/

June 17, 2019 at 7:45 pm

SWF-114 Wildfire Update

The fire south of Widewater has been accurately measured at 14 hectares but has not grown for the past 3 hours. Heavy equipment have completed a fire guard around the entire wildfire. Water skimming airtankers, 24 firefighters, and 3 water delivery vehicles continue to fight this wildfire.

The evacuation has been lifted for all areas though an 8-hour alert will remain in effect. Residents may return home.

For questions regarding the wildfire update, please contact Wildfire Information Officer Leah Lovequist at 780.849.0945. For more information on the wildfire status go to srd.web.alberta.ca/slave-lake-area-update. Go to 511.alberta.ca for up to date Road Report information.

Make use of the following MD of Lesser Slave River channels for updates as they happen:
MD website: www.mdlsr.ca
MD Facebook page: www.facebook.com/mdlsr124
MD Twitter page: www.twitter.com/ruggedandreal|
MD Administration Office: 780.849.4888

Source: MD of Lesser Slave Lake #124 Facebook page

 

June 17, 2019, 5:56pm

ALERT FOR POTENTIAL EVACUATION

NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS LOCATED IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

AREA 1: ALL RESIDENTS LOCATED IN THE BLUE HILLS AREA NORTH OF TOWNSHIP ROAD 1010, WEST OF RANGE ROAD 164 (STEEPHILL CREEK), SOUTH OF THE PEACE RIVER.

AREA 2: ALL RESIDENTS IN THE ROCKY LANE AND HIGH LEVEL AREA NORTH OF THE PEACE RIVER, WEST OF RANGE ROAD 150, SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 58, THE TOWN OF HIGH LEVEL, SOUTH AND SOUTHEAST OF HIGH LEVEL INCLUDING THE DENE THA’ FIRST NATION’S BUSHE RIVER RESERVE, AND BEAVER FIRST NATION’S CHILD’S LAKE RESERVE.

ALERT FOR POTENTIAL EVACUATION

An evacuation alert has been issued for residents located in the following areas:

Area 1: all residents located in the Blue Hills area north of Township Road 1010, west of Range Road 164 (Steephill Creek), south of the Peace River;

Area 2: all residents in the Rocky Lane and High Level area north of the Peace River, west of Range Road 150, south of Highway 58, the Town of High Level, south and southeast of High Level including the Dene Tha’ First Nation’s Bushe River reserve, and Beaver First Nation’s Child Lake reserve effective at 5:30 p.m. on June 17, 2019 due to wildfire threat in the area.

The evacuation alert is simply a notification to allow you time to prepare for potential evacuation. You are not required to evacuate at this time. If an evacuation order is issued, you will be given notice beforehand.

We advise residents to begin preparations to evacuate (fuelling vehicles, gathering documents, preparing food and water, etc.).

If an evacuation order is issued be sure to bring medication, blankets, sleeping bags, personal items, pets, and identification.

For all inquiries please contact the Mackenzie County Emergency Coordination Centre at (780) 927-3718.

For additional information listen to local community radio broadcast or follow Mackenzie County’s Facebook page.

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook Page

June 17, 2019, 5:31pm

 

June 17, 2019, 5:16pm

Trout Lake Area Evacuation

Everyone in the Trout Lake area, and any high risk persons of Peerless Trout, must evacuate immediately. Anyone needing transportation to leave the area should go to the Trout Lake Community Hall, and buses will be provided to transport people from the area. The remaining areas of Peerless Trout First Nation must be prepared to evacuate on short notice.

Persons evacuating must attend the Back Lakes Arena in Red Earth Creek, or the Bridge at Narrow’s to register and receive further information. Any High Risk persons in Peerless Trout First Nation must evacuate now also. Reception Centre for evacuees will be the Super 8 Hotel in Edmonton. The remaining persons in Peerless Trout First Nation must be prepared to evacuate on short notice.

Peerless Trout First Nation website is www.ptfn.net andwww.facebook.com/peerlesstroutfirstnation/ is the Facebook page for this community.

Additional Wildfire information is also available at www.wildfire.alberta.ca website.

Check 511.alberta.ca/region/Northern%20Alberta#:Alerts for more information on road conditions.

Alert CA-AB-AEA1-5850

The Trout Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation must evacuate immediately, and use Highway 686 and travel to Red Earth Creek to leave the area. Anyone needing assistance to leave go to the Trout Lake Community Hall where buses will be located. Evacuees need to register at the Back Lakes Arena in Red Earth. Go to the Peerless Trout website and Facebook page for more information.

June 17, 2019, 4:00pm

Update on the Chuckegg Fire – from Agriculture and Forestry:

“The wildfire is continuing to work it’s way northward another three kilometers and eastward another six kilometers. The front is approaching and we expect winds to shift and pick up within the next hour or so.  At this time the fire is about four kilometers north of the Boyer River cell tower and about 17 km back from the river directly east of La Crete.

We completed a back burn along the Peace River, which is going very well.  The intent was to remove this vegetation to reduce the risk of the fire spotting across the river and into Blue Hills when the wind changes to westerly.  For your information, the poplar in that ignition area burned clean and hot which demonstrates just how dry and volatile the forest is.  Typically poplar, with more moisture than coniferous trees, burns slower.  That’s not the case under current conditions.

Dozers are working to create guard south of High Level, that leads towards Devil Lake.  Heavy equipment is prepared to work through the night.

The wildfire continues to be active in a couple of places along the west perimeter as well as in one spot on the northwest corner.”

 

June 17, 2019, 3:48pm

Message from the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement:

Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement remains under evacuation order. The re-entry date has not been confirmed.
Initially we hoped for Thursday but due to the fire activity, this has not been confirmed yet. We are taking this one day at a time and you will be notified the day before re-entry.
We want you back as soon as possible but the community remains unsafe at the moment. There continues to be flare ups on a daily basis, unpredictable wind shifts and crews are still working daily to extinguish them.
We are confirming homes for the displaced families and will be contacted within the next day or two. The re-entry process is being confirmed.
Your safety is our priority, please be patient.

 

June 17, 2019 2:04pm

Alberta Emergency Alert has released a Wildfire Information Alert from the MD of Lesser slave Lake #124.

There is a fire 2 km south of the highway in Widewater near the gravel pit. Crews are on scene. Evacuation is underway from the west entrance of Widewater to Widewater Drive. Residents in that area are to evacuate immediately. Follow the directions of local authorities. Avoid the area.

Residents are asked to head to Slave Lake and check in at the Legacy Centre. Call 911 in case of an emergency; for current updates go to www.mdlsr.ca.

Source… https://emergencyalert.alberta.ca

June 17, 2019 2:00 pm

 

June 17, 2019, 1:30pm

Growth in the Chuckegg Fire’s Northeast side has caused concern.

See below for the latest active fire map and the Alert For Potential Evacuation that was announced by Mackenzie County earlier.

Source: NASA FIRMS – (link at the top of the page)

 

June 17, 2019, 12:30pm

COURTESY OF MACKENZIE COUNTY:

ALERT FOR POTENTIAL EVACUATION

NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS LOCATED EAST OF RANGE ROAD 190, WEST OF RANGE ROAD 160, NORTH OF TOWNSHIP 1080, SOUTH OF TOWNSHIP ROAD 1090 AND THE MACHESIS LAKE CAMPGROUND

An evacuation alert has been issued for residents located East of Range Road 190, West of Range Road 160, North of Township 1080, South of Township Road 1090 and the Machesis Lake Campground effective at 12:30 p.m. on June 17, 2019, due to wildfire threat in the area.

The evacuation alert is simply a notification to allow you time to prepare for potential evacuation. You are not required to evacuate at this time. If an evacuation order is issued, you will be given notice beforehand.

We advise residents to begin preparations to evacuate (fuelling vehicles, gathering documents, preparing food and water, etc.).

If an evacuation order is issued be sure to bring medication, blankets, sleeping bags, personal items, pets, and identification.

For all inquiries please contact the Mackenzie County Emergency Coordination Centre at (780) 927-3718.

For additional information listen to local community radio broadcast or follow Mackenzie County’s Facebook page.

June 17, 2019, 11:00am

COURTESY OF AGRICULTURE & FORESTRY:

Today is going to be a challenging day on the Chuckegg Creek wildfire.

Mother Nature wasn’t on our side last night as the winds continued to be steady throughout the night, and the humidity only climbed to between 40% to 60%.  This morning humidity is dropping rapidly and we anticipate crossover conditions and more aggressive fire behavior by about noon today.  Winds are expected to be S/SE/SW today.

The fire excursion that we talked about last night continued to burn through the night, travelling north.  The new edge of the fire is about 17-18 km from Devil Lake and about 22 km west of the river directly west of La Crete.  With south winds shifting between SE and SW, we can expect more growth today and substantial smoke.

As conditions allow we will be conducting an ignition along the north side of the Peace River to remove vegetation and prevent the potential for spot fires across the river and into Blue Hills.  We will also conduct burns within the fire and on the west side with the additional intent to shade out the east side of the fire and reduce the intensity of the burning this afternoon.

Be vigilant today.  Smoke and ash will be visible.  Be wary of embers carried by wind that could start fires outside of the existing fire perimeter.

Be prepared.  Stay informed.

SOURCE:  http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 17, 2019, 10:55am

Courtesy of Mackenzie County:

MANDATORY EVACUATION FOR INDIAN CABINS AND SURROUNDING AREA

A mandatory evacuation has been issued for residents located at Indian Cabins and surrounding area at 10:55 a.m. on June 17, 2019, due to wildfire threat in the area. Please evacuate the area via Highway 35 North to the Northwest Territories.

ALL EVACUEES ARE REQUIRED TO REPORT AND REGISTER WITH THE MACKENZIE COUNTY INCIDENT COMMAND CENTRE AT (780) 927-3718.

Bring medication, blankets, sleeping bags, personal items and identification if possible.

For additional information listen to local community radio broadcast or follow Mackenzie County’s Facebook page.

June 16, 2019, 6:25pm

Battle Complex Wildfire update

PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054):

This lightning caused fire is now BEING HELD at 55,179 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area.

Today has been an active fire day. Crews continue to work some spots near the edge of the northeast corner of the fire. Helicopters are bucketing in support of the ground crews.

6:25pm – Perimeters continue to hold. Pinch points are being worked with helicopter bucketing. Fire is active within the perimeter.

Crews were challenged on the north flank but were able to work the ground and the fire has not moved out of containment.

A cold front is expected to pass the area late afternoon tomorrow. The system is moving eastward. Crossover conditions are expected during the afternoon which will again result in increased fire activity. Crossover conditions occur when the relative humidity drops below, or is equal to, the temperature. Once the relative humidity drops below 30% the result is extreme burning conditions. The cold front will be followed by a rain event. Tomorrow it will be 28 degrees, 25% relative humidity with winds switching from the southeast to the southwest, blowing 20 km/hr.

A transition will take place tomorrow with an Alberta team taking over for the BC Incident Management Team. The BC Team will be leaving the fire site on Tuesday morning.

There are 399 firefighters and support staff, 14 helicopters and 38 pieces of heavy equipment working on this complex.

Source: https://wildfire.alberta.ca

June 16, 2019, 1:28pm

A MESSAGE FROM THE PADDLE PRAIRIE METIS SETTLEMENT FACEBOOK PAGE:

“We do not have a re-entry date yet. SRD updated they are scanning the residential areas for hot areas and sending locators on the grounds to verify and extinguish hotspots. There is still activity and do not want to place anyone at risk.
They have 18 pieces of equipment and 128 firefighters, there are still hot areas being detected.
SRD is anticipating 15-20km winds today and temperature in mid 20 degrees. They are making good progress to control portions of the wildfire but it remains out of control. The next wildfire progress reporting will be Monday afternoon.
We have been continuing to plan for your re-entry, cleaning, crisis counselling, community support programming, temporary housing and longterm housing options.
We have recently hired a Coordinator, Dawn Ferguson to help make this process more effective and she will be reaching out to the families soon to ensure you have all the required support during this time.
Stay safe and hopefully we have good news tomorrow afternoon.”

 

June 15, 2019, 12:00pm

The latest wildfire map for our area

 

June 14, 2019, 6:30pm

The fire Northwest of High Prairie is listed as Out of Control and 2 Hectares in size

 

June 14, 2019, 8:00am

The evacuation alert for The County of Northern Lights has been lifted.
As of last night, the Battle Complex fire is listed as Being Held.

 

June 13, 2019, 8:30pm

The Battle Complex wildfire near Manning is now listed as Being Held

 

June 13, 2019, 3:30pm

The wildfire on the Northeast side of Lubicon Lake has now been extinguished.

 

June 13, 2019, 3:00pm

Lightning has caused new fires in the past 24 hours.
New Report for the Peace River Forest Area is available here:  THURSDAY 3PM UPDATE

 

 

June 12, 2019, 10:30pm

The wildfire East of Peace River is now listed as Being Held.

 

June 12, 2019, 8:00pm

Update courtesy of Agriculture and Forestry:

THE CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE

The smoke lifted about 11am today, allowing helicopters with buckets to support firefighters on the ground.  Under clear skies and with warm temperatures and light winds, fire behavior picked up in intensity quite quickly.  The south (near Paddle Prairie), west, and east sides (north of the Peace River and south of the Boyer River) of the fire were active today, with trees torching under the extreme weather conditions.  Firefighters and helicopters with buckets worked to control hotspots on the south side and in other priority areas.

Winds were favorable and the ignition operation planned for the west side was carried out successfully this afternoon.  Smoke was visible at about 3:30 and ash, carried by the wind, was reported to be landing south of the Town of High Level and in other areas.  Firefighters and dozer groups made good progress today on the southwest.

Dozers continued to strengthen the contingency guard along the northeast and the east; they will work through the night to finish these lines of defense. Firefighters also continued to build containment lines along Highways 25 and 58, and north of Highway 58, west of High Level.

Weather for tomorrow has been downgraded from a Red Flag Warning to a Red Flag Watch, due to a slight decrease in humidity.  The forecast for tomorrow is for 24 degrees, 30% humidity, winds from the west/northwest at 15 to 20 km/hr.  There is a risk of lightning.  This means there is potential for extreme fire behavior again tomorrow, particularly on the east side. Communities east and southeast of the fire can expect smoke and limited visibility.

  • The last recorded size is approximately 270, 860 hectares.
  • Alberta Wildfire has 716 firefighters and personnel. With 41 helicopters and 129 pieces of heavy equipment.

SOURCE: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 12, 2019, 7:00pm

The fire near Lubicon Lake is now Under Control

 

June 12, 2019, 6:30pm (7:15 pm update)

*** As of 7:15pm the fire is no longer listed on the wildfire map ***

Another wildfire popping up in the Peace River/Slave Lake Forest Area.

This one is in the Sucker Creek Reserve, and is listed as Being Held.

 

June 12, 2019, 6:00pm

Update from Agriculture and Forestry on the wildfire that started today near Peace River:

PWF 076 was discovered just before noon today in the Cliffdale area (33 kms east of St. Isidore).

  • This fire remains out of control at this time, but fire behavior has lessened significantly since earlier this afternoon.  This is due in part to the hard work of the numerous air tankers, helicopters, and firefighters that have been working on this fire this afternoon.  The fire has also moved into a mixed wood stand which is not burning readily as the spruce stand it started in was.
  • Heavy equipment groups will be working overnight to surround this fire with dozer guard.
  • The fire is now approximately 37 hectares in size.

courtesy of http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

 

June 12, 2019, 4:00pm

A new out of control fire has been listed on the Northeast side of Lubicon Lake, South of Range Road 130A.

 

June 12, 2019, 12:25pm (updated at 6:00pm)

View from Seal Lake:

The fire is listed as Out of Control and 37 hectares in size.

It’s unofficially 43 km East of Peace River.  17 km Northeast of Harmon Valley

 

June 12, 2019, 9:00am

Battle Complex Wildfire:  Out of control – 55,179 hectares – Manning/Notikewin area

With the increase in temperature, fire activity is expected to intensify today.
The perimeter does remain fortified and is still holding.
Within the fire there are pockets of unburned trees that will continue to burn, causing increased smoke.

 

June 11, 2019, 11:00pm

Officials from the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement estimate that about 60,000 hectares of land has been burnt within the boundaries of the settlement.

The highlighted area has been effected by the fire.

The Mandatory Evacuation Order remains in place.

*courtesy of the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement Facebook Page

 

June 11, 2019, 8:30pm

Due to the warmer temperatures this week, fire activity continues to increase.

The Chuckegg Fire sits at just under 270,000 hectares.

Firefighters and bucketing helicopters & airtankers are focusing on priority areas to limit the fires spread.
One of the main areas is around Paddle Prairie.  They continue to extinguish hot spots, to limit the fire’s spread, and to protect values.

 

June 11, 2019, 5:00pm

The eight-hour evacuation alert has been lifted for the Town of High Level, the Dene Tha’ First Nation community of Bushe River, and for the Mackenzie County rural area immediately north and south of High Level.

The eight-hour evacuation alert remains in effect for the area west of Blues Creek and Blue Hills Road (Range Road 180), north and south of Highway 697.

The La Crete Ferry is closed. The La Crete Ferry Campground also remains closed.

 

June 11, 2019, 11:30am

A message from The Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement:

“Paddle Prairie remains under a Mandatory Evacuation order. The Emergency Management Act of Alberta section 17 states “Any person who fails to comply with an evacuation order is guilty of an offence and liable to imprisonment for not more than 1 year and / or a fine of not more than $10,000.”
If you are in Paddle Prairie without permission as essential staff, please leave immediately back to Grande Prairie and call the local public information line at 780-567-5587 to make arrangements in getting your motel room back.
We cannot ensure your safety if you remain in the settlement, the wildfire remains very active.
I apologize for being so abrupt about this but this is a serious matter. And we want you to return home as soon as possible.
I received confirmation that the Evacuation Relief funding is a “ one-time payment” only and will not be offered again to evacuees. The recommendation is for evacuees to go to your nearest Alberta Works office and ask for assistance. I will call Alberta Works for more information and post.
Thank you and Please be safe”

(Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement Facebook Page)

 

June 10, 2019, 8:30pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA | WILDFIRE UPDATE | SOURCE: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

The Chuckegg Creek fire saw an increase in fire activity today on the west, south and east side, north of the Peace River. Firefighters along with air support from bucketing helicopters were effective in limiting the fires spread in priority areas where there was an increase in activity. Firefighters continue to consolidate containment along Highways 35 and 58, and north of highway 58 west of High Level.

Firefighters along with bucketing helicopters continue to work around Paddle Prairie to extinguish hotspots to limit spread and protect values. Firefighters are continuing to gain access on the west side of the fire in priority areas where access is more remote. Heavy equipment continues to create guard in priority areas to limit spread and aid firefighters in accessing the fire perimeter.

  • The last recorded size is approximately 268, 445 hectares.
  • Alberta Wildfire has 728 firefighters and personnel. With 41 helicopters and 129 pieces of heavy equipment.

 

With a change to dryer and sunnier conditions, the Jackpot Fire near Steen River was more active on the northeast and east side of the fire. Firefighters with the support from bucketing helicopters worked to limit spread in these areas. Due to hard work and excellent progress made by firefighters over the last number of days, priority areas of this fire did not grow past containment lines.

Firefighters continue to utilize helipads to access new areas of the fire’s perimeter, using pumps and hose, hand tools and support from helicopter bucketing.

  • The last updated size of the fire is approximately 28,167 hectares.
  • There are 81 firefighters and 9 helicopters assigned to this incident.

(courtesy of srd.web.alberta.ca)

 

June 10, 2019, 4:30pm

 

June 10, 2019, 3:00pm

SOURCE:   http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

Battle Complex:

This lightning caused fire remains out of control at 54,255 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area

  • Fire behaviour increased yesterday due to the warmer weather. Areas that were previously dormant were more active and increased fire activity was observed throughout the day.
  • Aerial ignition operations began at approximately 3:30 pm yesterday and the planned ignitions on the west flank of the Battle Fire (south of the Hotchkiss River) were successful. Winds were in a very favourable direction. The area targeted was a pocket of unburnt fuel between the guard and the wildfire.  That area is now well protected by an area of burned fuel and that volatile pocket of spruce has been burned away.
  • Today, crews are continuing to work on identified hotspots. Excavators are being used to remove danger trees.  Due to the increasing temperatures and dropping RH levels, there will be more open flame and active candling in areas of unburnt fuel in the next couple of days.
  • Visibility was an issue this morning on the complex. Air Operations were delayed as the inversion that developed in the area did not begin to lift until late morning.  Another inversion is expected for tomorrow which will result in smoke settling low in the area once again.
  • As the temperatures increase and relative humidity levels decrease, fire behavior will continually intensify.  While the perimeter has been fortified and has been holding, there are numerous pockets of unburned trees within the fire that will continue to burn.  Nearby residents will continue to see signs of active burning such as smoke columns in the fire area.

(Courtesy of SRD)

 

June 10, 2019, 11:30am

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA | WILDFIRE UPDATE | SOURCE: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

There are 4 active wildfires in the High Level Forest Area – Three are Out of Control (OC), and one is Under Control (UC).

  • The Chuckegg Creek fire (HWF-042) remains Out of Control (OC) at 265, 925 hectares.
  • The Jackpot Creek Wildfire (HWF-066) around Steen River remains Out of Control (OC) at 28, 167 hectares.
  • Fire (HWF075), is located approximately 42 km southeast of South Tall Cree, east of highway 88. This fire is Out of Control (OC) at 18 hectares. There are 24 firefighters with air support from 3 helicopters. There is no threat to any communities.

(courtesy of srd.web.alberta.ca)

 

June 9, 2019, 8:30pm

The following is courtesy of SRD:

Due to no significant rainfall and gusty winds out of the northwest shifting to the southwest the fire experienced an increase in fire activity on the west, southwest, south and east side, north of the Peace River. Firefighters carried out a successful controlled burn operation on the west, and southwest side of the fire, today as conditions allowed to do so. Bucketing helicopters and airtankers continue to assist firefighters on the ground.

Firefighters continue to work around Paddle Prairie to extinguish hotspots and are utilizing infrared scans to assist with identifying priority areas. Firefighters are also continuing to cut heli pads on the west side of the fire to gain access in priority areas. Heavy equipment continues to create guard in priority areas to limit spread and aid firefighters in accessing the fire perimeter.

The last recorded size is approximately 265, 925 hectares.
Firefighters continue to consolidate containment along Highways 35 and 58, and north of highway 58 west of High Level.
Alberta Wildfire has 757 firefighters and personnel. With 42 helicopters and 135 pieces of heavy equipment.
Atco is continues to repair power poles along highway 35 south of High Level. Atco has restored power supply and is supporting normal operations to the Town of High Level, La Crete, Fort Vermilion & Dene Tha’ First Nation. Atco has secured large-scale backup generators that can be drawn on to provide power to communities, if needed.

http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 9, 2019, 5:30pm

Message from the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement Facebook Page:

“Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement remains on Evacuation status, the wind has picked up and there have been hotspots flaring up within the community. Fireguards have been established and being monitored. Wildland firefighters still on fire site as well as Paddle Prairie fire department putting out hotspots.

The next few days forecast is hot and dry and we will be monitoring fire activity, air quality is still poor.

The community is unsafe for members to return at this point, please do not enter or return to Paddle Prairie. Members that are attempting to sneak back into the community please return to your motel rooms in Grande Prairie or Peace River. Not only are you placing yourself at risk , you are placing the workers at risk as well.

Power should be restored today and gas should be restored in next couple days.

We are planning the community’s re-entry as well but there is a lot of work that needs to be completed before this can happen. We are looking for temporary housing, inspections and cleaning for buildings and homes, coordination and training of volunteers for a process for families that lost their homes ❤️.

We need to ensure their will be crisis counsellors on site available to all members, Red Cross volunteers, AHS crisis team, as well as community services in place. We have been meeting with Disaster recovery teams in Paddle Prairie to help with this process.

We will not have a re-entry date until we get permission that the Community is safe.

Sorry for the inconvenience, I know you want to come home❤️ and we will get you home as soon as we are permitted. Please be safe.”

SOURCE:  https://www.facebook.com/paddleprairie

 

June 9, 2019, 4:00pm

The Town of Peace River has informed evacuees that beginning on Tuesday, June 11, the Peace River Reception Centre will no longer be located at Misery Mountain, and instead will be moved to Town Hall. Details will be shared on Monday.

On Monday, The Peace River Reception Centre will be open from 9am to noon at the Misery Mountain Ski Chalet.

 

June 9, 2019, 11:00am

Courtesy of http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update :

“Residents could see increased smoke coming from the Battle Complex today.

Firefighters intend to use aerial ignition – just one of the many tools we have to fight wildfires – on the west side of the fire, south of the Hotchkiss River around midday today.

Aerial ignition is used to remove potential fuel between the perimeter of the wildfire and a fireguard – such as a road, river, dozer guard or lake. The first priority with any planned burning is safety – the safety of firefighters, public, equipment, and adjacent values at risk.

In addition to safety, we analyze topography, fuel load, and the potential for fire behaviour. Most often, wind speed and direction are influential factors, but relative humidity, and temperatures are also key in determining when and where aerial ignition takes place. All these considerations are used to create a strategic plan for aerial ignition operations.

The overall objectives for the operation are to enhance community safety and the effectiveness of our firefighting efforts by removing unburned vegetation between the guard and the wildfire.”

 

June 7, 2019, 11:15am

The Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement remains under a Mandatory Evacuation Order.

Although the Chuckegg Fire has shown decreased activity this week, it still borders the Settlement.
Firefighters have created a guard and continue to extinguish hot spots that pop up within the community.

Residents are asked to remain patient with the situation, as safety is still a concern.

 

June 7, 2019, 11:00am

HIGHWAY UPDATE

Highway 35, from Township Road 1022 to 5 km south of High Level is open.
RCMP is escorting traffic, so expect major delays.
There’s no access to Paddle Prairie, which remains under a Mandatory Evacuation.

• Highway 58 is open.
• Highway 35 Northbound is open.
• Highway 754 from Highway 88 to Wabasca is closed.
• Highway 813 from Wabasca to Sandy Lake is closed.
• Highway 697 from Highway 35 to Range Road 185, westbound from La Crete is closed.

The La Crete Ferry remains closed.

 

June 7, 2019, 10:00am

 

June 7, 2019, 9:30am

***COURTESY OF SRD.WEB.ALBERTA

Due to no significant rainfall and winds, returning today out of the north the fire may see an increase in fire activity. Firefighters will also be carrying out controlled burn operations as conditions allow. Expect to see smoke. Firefighters, heavy equipment, and aircraft continue to make great progress on establishing containment in priority areas, and extinguishing hot spots along the fire perimeter to limit spread. Firefighters today will be cutting heli pads on the west side to gain access in priority areas and dozer guard has been completed on the north side, north of highway 58.

Structural and wildland firefighters continue to work around Paddle Prairie to protect values and extinguish hotspots, while heavy equipment works to place extensive fireguards. Airtankers and bucketing helicopters continue to assist firefighters on the ground as possible.

  • The last recorded size is approximately 265, 925 hectares. The decrease in fire activity has allowed aircraft to safely get closer to the fire perimeter for more accurate mapping.
  • Firefighters continue to consolidate containment along Highways 35 and 58, and north of highway 58 west of High Level.
  • Heavy equipment is continuing to construct fireguard from the Boyer River to the Peace River to limit fire spread to the east.
  • Alberta Wildfire has 785 firefighters and personnel. With 42 helicopters and 135 pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Atco is continues to repair power poles along highway 35 south of High Level. Atco has restored power supply and is supporting normal operations to the Town of High Level, La Crete, Fort Vermilion & Dene Tha’ First Nation. Atco has secured large-scale backup generators that can be drawn on to provide power to communities, if needed.

SOURCE:  http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 7, 2019, 9:00am

***COURTESY OF SRD.WEB.ALBERTA

Battle Complex Wildfire: PCX-001 (formerly PWF 052 and 054) remains out of control at 56,200 hectares in size in the Manning/Notikewin area

  • The fire perimeter did not grow yesterday. It remains at 55,200 hectares in size. Please note that although fire activity decreased yesterday, there continues to be active fire within the perimeter. You will continue to see smoke, flame and occasionally torching. As of Tuesday evening, a dozer guard was completed around the entire perimeter of the fire. Crews will continue to solidify the perimeter and attack hotspots as necessary.
  • Winds are expected to be 15-20 km/hr, gusting to 45 km/hr today, blowing predominantly from the northwest. Areas to the south of Manning have received substantial rain but none has reached the fire. Lower temperatures will assist crews working on the fireline through the weekend, but by next Wednesday temperatures are forecasted to reach 28 degrees.
  • There are 385 personnel, 13 helicopters and 73 pieces of heavy equipment on this fire.

SOURCE: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/peace-river-area-update

 

June 6, 2019, 11:00am

Today’s wildfire update for The Mackenzie states that the weather has aided in reducing fire activity once again.

The Chuckegg fire remains at 275,000 hectares.

The Steen River fire is at 28,000 hectares.

 

June 6, 2019, 11:00am

Courtesy of Mackenzie County:

For all the residents of Blue Hills/Tompkins, the mandatory evacuation order has been lifted effective immediately. The residents west of Range Road 185, north and south of Highway 697 can re-enter their homes but will remain on an eight-hour evacuation alert.

Highway 697 from Range Road 185 to the La Crete Ferry will remain closed. The La Crete Ferry Campground will also remain closed until further notice.

An eight-hour evacuation alert remains in effect for the Town of High Level and the Dene Tha’ First Nation community of Bushe River. Parts of Mackenzie County immediately north and south of High Level will also remain under eight-hour evacuation alert, along with a portion of the Blue Hills/Tompkins area.

 

June 6, 2019, 10:00am

Highway Update: Alberta 511

Highway 35, from Township Road 1022 to 5 km south of High Level is open.
RCMP will be escorting traffic through; expect major delays. There is no access to Paddle Prairie at this time due to wildfire.

• Highway 58 is open.
• Highway 35 North is open.
• Highway 754 from Highway 88 to Wabasca is closed.
• Highway 813 from Wabasca to Sandy Lake is closed.
• Highway 697, from Highway 35 to Range Road 185, west of La Crete is closed.

The La Crete Ferry is closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

 

June 5, 2019, 11:00am

Reduced fire activity continues in the High Level & Peace River forest areas.

Rain and cooler temperatures have aided fire fighters.

 

June 4, 2019, 4:00pm

Courtesy of Mackenzie County:

Effective immediately, the eight-hour evacuation alert is ending for many parts of Mackenzie County. The map below shows areas no longer under evacuation alert.
An eight-hour evacuation alert remains in effect for the Town of High Level and the Dene Tha’ First Nation community of Bushe River. Parts of Mackenzie County immediately north and south of High Level will also remain under eight-hour evacuation alert, along with a portion of the Blue Hills/Tompkins area.

For some residents of Blue Hills/Tompkins, a mandatory evacuation order remains in place. This mandatory evacuation includes the area west of Range Road 185, north and south of Highway 697.

Despite the recent improvement in conditions, areas of the wildfire continue to be active and dangerous. Although officials have determined parts of the region are relatively safe from the fire, this could change if the weather changes.

 

June 4, 2019, 2:40pm

 

June 4, 2019, 12:00pm

Update on the Highways
• Highway 58 – OPEN
• Highway 35 North – OPEN
• Highway 35, from south of High Level to Twin Lakes – CLOSED
• Highway 695, East & West, including Keg River – CLOSED
• Highway 754 from Highway 88 to Wabasca – CLOSED
• Highway 813 from Wabasca to Sandy Lake – CLOSED
• Highway 697, from Highway 35 to Range Road 185, west of La Crete – CLOSED

 The La Crete Ferry – CLOSED

 

June 4, 2019, 11:00am

 

June 4, 2019, 10:30am

Source: http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

 

June 4, 2019, 9:30am

County of Northern Lights residents who are re-entering their homes after being evacuated in the area from Twin Lakes Campground to the South, are being asked to go to the community hall meeting on Wednesday, June 5th from 7-8:30 pm at the Hotchkiss Hall.

 

June 4, 2019, 9:00am

Message from Mackenzie County:

Officials have reduced the area of Mackenzie County under mandatory evacuation, allowing some additional residents to return home, effective at 9 a.m.

The area where the evacuation order has been lifted is highlighted on the map attached and includes homes west of Range Road 180 (Blue Hills Road), west of Blues Creek, to Range Road 185. A mandatory evacuation remains in place for areas west of Range Road 185, north and south of Highway 697.
Returning residents will be on an eight-hour evacuation alert, as are other parts of Mackenzie County. Although officials from Mackenzie County and Alberta Wildfire have determined these areas are relatively safe from the fire, this could change if the weather changes. Please monitor the Mackenzie County Facebook page for an updated map of areas that remain on eight-hour evacuation alert.Parts of the wildfire continue to be active and dangerous. Please stay out of the way of firefighters. You can expect the smoke to be thick for the next few days and weeks, and ash may continue to fall.Mackenzie County residents who return home will be on an eight-hour evacuation alert for the near future. This means you should ensure you have a full tank of gas and supplies to last two to three days in case a mandatory evacuation becomes necessary.For all inquiries, please contact the Mackenzie County Incident Command Centre at (780) 927-3718.

 

June 4, 2019, 9:00am

June 3, 2019, 8:00pm

HIGH LEVEL FOREST AREA – CHUCKEGG UPDATE
– courtesy of SRD

Recent scattered rain showers and today’s cooler temperatures have helped decrease fire activity. In result, this is continuing to help firefighters, heavy equipment, and aircraft to establish containment in priority areas. Structural and wildland firefighters continue to work around Paddle Prairie to protect values and have worked with heavy equipment to place extensive fire guards.

On the east side of the Peace River by Tompkins Landing, fire guard lines have been completed from the agricultural land to the Peace River with structural and wildland firefighters extinguishing hot spots along the fire perimeter to limit spread. Air tankers and bucketing helicopters are assisting firefighters on the ground as possible.

The last recorded size is approximately 275, 985 hectares. The reduction in fire size is due to more accurate mapping with reduced fire behaviour.

Firefighters continue to consolidate containment along Highways 35 and 58, and north of highway 58 west of High Level. Heavy equipment is constructing fire guard from the Boyer River to the Peace River to limit fire spread to the east.

Structural protection continues to be established, south of the fire by Paddle Prairie, in Keg River and to the east of the Peace River.

 

June 3, 2019, 4:30pm

 

June 3, 2019, 3:30pm

From the Town of High Level:

Pet reunification for identified pets

Staff from the Town of High Level will help reunite you with your pets.

When: Tuesday, June 4, 2019 from 2 to 8 p.m.

Where: Curling Rink Lobby at the High Level Arena Complex (10101 105 Ave. in High Level)

You will need to provide your address and ID.

Owners that do not pickup their pet during the specified time will be contacted to make further arrangements. If you can’t attend to pick up your pet, call the re-entry information line 780-821-4012.

 

June 3, 2019 2:00pm

Message from Northern Lakes College…
Due to the wildfires in the Northern Lakes College service region, and the impact to the students in those communities, NLC will be postponing Convocation to September. The wildfires still have a number of communities under evacuation and many remain on evacuation alert. The distress and anxiety that many students, staff, and community residents are experiencing remain the prime concern for the Board of Governors. Convocation will be held September in High Prairie.

 

June 3, 2019 1:27pm

Courtesy of 511 Alberta on Twitter:

 

June 3, 2019 12:00pm

The mandatory evacuation order for County of Northern Lights residents located from township road 922 to Twin Lakes has been rescinded.
Displaced residents in the area may return to their homes.
Residents will remain under an evacuation alert.  Be prepared to leave your homes on short notice if needed.

 

June 3, 2019 11:00am

Road Update

– Highway 58 is open.
– Highway 35, north is open.
– Highway 35, from south of High Level to 2nd Street within the Town of Manning is closed.
– Highway 692 near Hawk Hills is closed.
– Highway 695, East and West, including Keg River is closed.
– Highway 754 from Highway 88 to Wabasca is closed.
– Highway 813 from Wabasca to Sandy Lake closed.
– Highway 697, from Highway 35 to Range Road 185, west of La Crete is closed.
– The La Crete Ferry is closed due to wildfire activity in the area.

 

June 3, 2019 10:15am

Source: Town of High Level Facebook page

 

June 2, 2019 9:00pm

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook page

 

June 2, 2019 9:00pm

Source: Town of High Level Facebook page

 

June 2, 2019 8:30pm

Source: County of Northern Lights Facebook page

 

June 2, 2019 7:00pm

SLAVE LAKE EVACUATION ALERT UPDATE June 2, 2019 7:00 P.M.— The heavy smoke cloud that is visible to the North from the Town of Slave Lake is largely due to containment burning procedures done by Alberta Forestry.

We have seen few changes with the wildfires over the day, crews have been doing everything they can and we would like to thank them all very much for all the tireless work they have done. At this time Slave Lake is still under the 8 hour evacuation alert and we will continue to assess this throughout the next few days.

Light precipitation and cooling temperatures are expected over the next few days. As temperatures cool, the smoke will continue to drift into the Town and is expected to be around for the next few days. If you are experiencing distress or need information on precautions to take when there is heavy smoke in the air please visit the AHS Website HERE.

The heavy smoke cloud that is visible to the North from the Town of Slave Lake is largely due to containment burning procedures done by Alberta Forestry. Smoke is more visible due to the smoke traveling straight up, rather than blowing and dispersing horizontally.  To see the smoke forecast please Click Here.

The Multi-Recreation Centre will be open during the meal times as the Salvation Army Food Truck. The Salvation Army Food Truck Hours of operations for Monday June 3, 2019; Breakfast – 7:30 A.M. to 9:30 A.M., and Lunch 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M. after 2:00 P.M. tomorrow the Salvation Army Food Truck will be leaving. Thank you so much to all the Salvation Army workers and volunteers.

The Reception Centre, located at the Legacy Centre, will be open tomorrow 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

All schools will be open tomorrow as usual.

Our next update will be approximately 10:30 A.M. tomorrow.

Source: http://www.slavelake.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=666&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

 

June 2, 2019 7:00pm

As posted on the Town of High Level Facebook page…

You may see Flagger tape in your yard and around your properties. Firefighters marked potential hazards while they were protecting your homes. Please leave the orange tape where it is until advised otherwise by the fire department. We suggest contacting your local fire department or FireSmart Canada (firesmartcanada.ca) to get advice on steps you can take to better fire proof your home in the future.

 

June 2, 2019 4:00pm

As posted on the Town of High Level Facebook page…

June 2, 2019

High-risk patients successfully evacuated

Emergency medical staff successfully evacuated 77 high-risk patients out of the Mackenzie County and High Level area under an evacuation alert. Health officials chose to evacuate patients from the Fort Vermilion Hospital, the La Crete Continuing Care Centre and Heimstead Lodge in La Crete so that if the wildfire worsens, the patients will be safely outside the community.

Patients in wheelchairs and on stretchers were taken by ground ambulance or airlifted by fixed-wing air ambulances. People who could walk were flown out on a Dash 7 aircraft from the La Crete Airport.

Another 50 or so residents of those facilities made it out of the alert area with family members or on their own steam. Most went to facilities in Edmonton, with help from places in Grande Prairie, Peace River, Lacombe, Lamont, Wetaskiwin, Leduc, Tofield and Sherwood Park.

The evacuation took less than 24 hours and will ensure everyone remains safe and taken care of in the event of a wildfire emergency.

Kudos to the teams at Alberta Health Services and Emergency Medical Services!

 

June 2, 2019 3:00pm

As posted on the Fort Vermilion Public School Facebook page…

Update from Mr. McMann, Superintendent of Schools, FVSD

Hope you are doing well and staying strong! It has been a challenging couple of weeks. There are several things that have occurred that we need to inform you of. The news we are sharing is not the news we were hoping to share with you and is completely out of our control.

The Board of Trustees along with the Minister of Education, Deputy Minister of Education, MLA Dan Williams, and Assistant Deputy Minister Michael Walter made the decision based solely on Student Safety to close all Fort Vermilion School Division Schools for the remainder of the School Year. A mandatory inspection with Llyod and Sadd, our insurance holder, indicated that all FVSD school division schools need to be professionally cleaned, a service our staff are not certified to provide.

Officially the Town of High Level and all of Mackenzie County are under an evacuation alert. Tompkins Landing still remains under a mandatory evacuation. Please ensure that you have a full tank of gas and supplies to last you several days while you are in the affected area. The wildfire remains unpredictable and very active. Smoke may be very thick for days and weeks to come, ash may be falling. Please ensure that you are staying informed by checking the town’s website, the county’s Facebook page, and Alberta Wildfire updates.

School Division Staff will be informed in the next few days of expectations moving forward. When we have more information we will let everyone know. This should include information on report cards.

 

June 2, 2019 2:00pm

As posted on the Town of High Level Facebook page…

When you arrive Monday, you will see that while you were away firefighters may have taken some actions around your homes and properties in case the wildfire entered the community. Propane tanks, patio furniture, fire wood, garbage bins and other items were moved away from homes. You can move your items back into your yards, but please keep barbecues and flammable items away from the house or from under trees. You can barbecue as usual.

 

June 2, 2019 1:10pm

 

June 2, 2019 12:50pm

 

 

June 2, 2019 12:00pm

As posted on the Mackenzie County Facebook page…

Highway Update
HIGHWAY CONDITIONS DUE TO WILDFIRE

• Highway 58, from High Level is OPEN.
• Highway 35 from High Level to the Northwest Territories border is OPEN. Highway and wildfire conditions are being closely monitored, and the highway may be closed without warning if conditions change or safe travel is no longer possible. Follow all posted signs and the directions of local authorities.
• Highway 35, south of High Level to 2nd Street within the Town of Manning is closed.
• Highway 692 near Hawk Hills is closed.
• Highway 695, East and West, including Keg River is closed.
• Highway 697, from Highway 35 to Range Road 185, west of La Crete is closed.
o The La Crete Ferry is closed due to wildfire activity in the area.
• Highway 754 from Highway 88 to Wabasca is closed.
Highway conditions are highly variable and continuing to change. There is currently no estimated time for when any affected highway will re-open or when conditions may change. Please stay tuned to Alberta 511.

Northbound travellers from the Peace River area should detour using Highway 986 to Highway 88.

People choosing to leave from Rainbow Lake, Chateh and Zama areas will be allowed to leave via Highway 58 as long as road conditions and restrictions allow.

There is no public access permitted into the Town of High Level until 10:00 a.m. Monday morning.

 

June 2, 2019 11:15am

Town of High Level, Mackenzie County and Dene Tha’ First Nation

NEWS

Welcome Home Monday!

June 2, 2019

High Level and the surrounding area is re-opening its doors to welcome you back.

At 10 a.m. Monday, the mandatory evacuation order for High Level, the surrounding areas of Mackenzie County and the Dene Tha’ First Nation communities of Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh will be lifted and people will be allowed back into their homes. An evacuation alert will be put in place immediately.

Officials from the county, town and First Nation, along with their respective fire chiefs, in addition to Alberta Wildfire, have determined this area is relatively safe from the fire. This could change, if the weather changes.

We know you’re eager to come home, but please drive carefully and arrive after 10 a.m. so you don’t have to wait in a line of vehicles.

What will happen when you get to town?

When you arrive from the east on Highway 58, you will be greeted by officials and receive a re-entry package with key information, including:

– how to flush your taps to clear stagnant water
– how and where to get rid of spoiled food and fridge contents
First: Feel free to head home check it out.
Then: Read through the re-entry package to find out details about:
– garbage disposal
– how to get help with health concerns
– what firefighting equipment you may see
The hospital, grocery stores, banks and gas stations are ready for you.

The town hall is open, but it is still very active as a centre for fire operations, so people with urgent issues will be our priority.

If you come home after 8 p.m. on the first day, please visit the town hall to pick up a re-entry package.

Please: High Level, Bushe River and the area surrounding High Level, will immediately be placed under evacuation alert. Please ensure you have a full tank of gas and supplies to last you several days while you are here. The wildfire remains very active and unpredictable. Smoke may be very thick for days and weeks to come, and ash may be falling. Other communities are being evacuated and may need our help.

Remember: Stay vigilant. Stay safe. The wildfire is still burning. Let’s make sure we get back home safely.

Source: https://www.highlevel.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=167

 

June 2, 2019 11:00am

THE CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE | JUNE 02, 2019 AT 11:00 A.M.

Firefighters, heavy equipment, and aircraft continue to focus on establishing containment in priorities areas. Structural and wildland firefighters continue to work around Paddle Prairie to protect values. On the east side of the Peace River by Tompkins Landing, fire guard lines have been completed from the agricultural land to the Peace River with structural and municipal firefighters extinguishing hot spots along the fire perimeter to limit spread. Airtankers and bucketing helicopters are assisting ground operations as possible, but thick smoke continues to limit visibility on parts of the fire.

Firefighters continue to consolidate containment along Highways 35 and 58. Heavy equipment is building fire guards to the north of High Level to limit further spread of the fire towards Hutch Lake.

The forecast today anticipates dry conditions with winds prevailing from the west and southwest, with gusts up to 35 km/hour. A red flag weather watch has been issued, with the potential for extreme fire behaviour. Yesterday we saw scattered precipitation and thundershowers across parts of the fire, approximately 5-14mm. This in result can dampen fire activity and aid suppression efforts, but any return of warm and dry weather can revive fire behaviour.

The last recorded size is approximately 279, 551 hectares.
Firefighters utilized east winds yesterday to complete a successful burn-off by the Boyer Towers on the east side of the fire, tying the burn and fire perimeter to Highway 35. This burn-off will help protect the towers and limit the fire’s ability to progress further east at that point by eliminating available forest fuels.

There have been no homes or businesses damaged to date around High Level, but the threat remains.
Structural protection and firefighters are mobilized south of the fire by Paddle Prairie, to the east of the Peace River, and in the Keg River to Carcajou area.

Alberta Wildfire has 385 firefighters, along with 130 structural firefighters. There are 41 helicopters.

For more information please continue to monitor the Alberta Wildfire update http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update?fbclid=IwAR2ybiHEFG7Qvmpw8A3bpY8UfNWpvTHWwNvY87lo8WviHNpeCPovsRqgaUE

Source: https://www.highlevel.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=166

 

June 2, 2019 11:00am

June 2, 2019 11:00am

Source: wildfire.alberta.ca/files/firemap.pdf

 

June 2,2019 10:00am

SLAVE LAKE EVACUATION ALERT UPDATE June 2, 2019 10:00 A.M.— As smoke levels are expected to increase late today and continue over the next couple of days, try to get out and enjoy the weather while the skies are clear. Just a reminder that the Town of Slave Lake is still under an 8 hour evacuation alert.

FIRES

Although we did receive some much needed rain today, the rain was scattered and amounts were light. To improve the dry conditions, much more rain is needed. The wildfire danger remains EXTREME for the entire Slave Lake Forest Area. Click here to view the wildfire danger map. All Fire and OHV bans remain in effect.

Lightning sparked three new wildfires yesterday. Firefighters have extinguished one and two are under control. Sporadic amounts of small rain are expected in the coming days, and with that Lightning will continue to be an area of concern. Since the start of the wildfire season on March 1st, there have been 85 wildfires and 216,866 hectares burned in the Slave Lake Forest Area. For information on the wildfire situation across the province of Alberta, visit: wildfire.alberta.ca.

Wildfire Information Booth has been set up at the Walmart parking lot in Slave Lake.
The most current information and maps regarding the wildfires in the area will be available. Information officers will be available to answer any questions.
Today – 9:00 am – 8:30 pm

They are providing the following information at the booth;

Maps and wildfire information about wildfires in Slave Lake Forest Area – McMillan Complex
High Level maps and wildfire information
Wildfire Smoke and Your Health/ Mental Health – AHS materials
Evac information from AB Emergency Alert Notifications
FireSmart
Information on where evacuees are to check in from the various communities that are involved – High Level, Wabasca, Trout Lake, Sandy and Marten Beach.
The Reception Centre, located at the Legacy Centre, will be open today 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

The Premier will also be in the area today and Mayor Warman will be joining him on an aerial tour of the fire as well as spending some time in Wabasca today.

We will provide another update at approximately 7:30 pm this evening.

Source: http://www.slavelake.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=666&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

June 1, 2019 9:55pm

Source: Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement Facebook page

 

June 1, 2019 9:20pm

 

June 1, 2019 9:00pm
THE CHUCKEGG CREEK FIRE | JUNE 01, 2019 AT 09:00 P.M.

Firefighters, heavy equipment, and aircraft are focusing on establishing containment in priorities areas. The fire continues to be active with growth on the west side today. Structural and wildland firefighters continue to work around Paddle Prairie to protect values. On the east side of the Peace River by Tompkins Landing, fire guard lines have been completed from the agricultural land to the Peace River with structural and municipal firefighters extinguishing hot spots along the fire perimeter to limit spread. Airtankers and bucketing helicopters are assisting ground operations as possible, but thick smoke continues to limit visibility on parts of the fire.

Firefighters continue to consolidate containment along Highways 35 and 58. Heavy equipment is building fire guards to the north of High Level to limit further spread of the fire towards Hutch Lake.

The forecast tomorrow anticipates dry conditions with winds prevailing from the west and southwest, with gusts up to 35 km/hour. A red flag weather warning has been issued, with the potential for extreme fire behaviour tomorrow. While today saw scattered precipitation and thundershowers across parts of the fire that can dampen fire activity and aid suppression efforts, any return of warm and dry weather can revive fire behaviour.

The last recorded size is approximately 280,000 hectares.

Firefighters utilized east winds yesterday to complete a successful burn-off by the Boyer Towers on the east side of the fire, tying the burn and fire perimeter to Highway 35. This burn-off will help protect the towers and limit the fire’s ability to progress further east at that point by eliminating available forest fuels.

There have been no homes or businesses damaged to date around High Level, but the threat remains.
Alberta Wildfire has 385 firefighters, along with 130 structural firefighters. There are 26 helicopters.

For more information please continue to monitor the Alberta Wildfire Update http://srd.web.alberta.ca/high-level-area-update

Source: Town of High Level Facebook page

 

June 1, 2019 7:30pm
SLAVE LAKE EVACUATION ALERT UPDATE June 1, 2019 7:30 P.M.— Limited changes in fire activity today. We did have two new starts due to lightning today but they were quickly extinguished. Over the next couple of days we will see some wind changes, lower temperatures and a CHANCE of precipitation. Although this is welcomed, the changing winds and cooler temperatures will likely see a significant increase in smoke in town. This will likely start late tomorrow and carry on into Monday-Tuesday. Evenings will see the heaviest amounts.

SMOKE

As temperatures cool this evening, the smoke will become heavy and sink close to the ground. Smoke will continue to drift into the Slave Lake Forest Area over the next several days. If you experience respiratory difficulties, visit Alberta Health Link or dial 811. Visit www.firesmoke.ca to view the most current smoke forecast. Click here for Alberta Health Services Information about Wildfire Smoke.

FIRES

We are now up to 350 firefighters and support staff, 24 helicopters, 9 aircraft and 60 pieces of heavy equipment fighting this wildfire. Firefighters are supporting dozers, ignition specialists on the west side of Wabasca. Structural Protection Branch continues with operations. Five kilometers of dozer guard are completed on the west side of Wabasca. Dozers continue to secure the east to west flank on the south side of SWF-049.

The wildfires are approximately, as of the the June 1st Wildfire update:

6.1 and 4.5 kilometres west of Wabasca No. 166B and 166D
26.5 kilometres northeast of Marten Beach
33.5 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake
9.3 kilometres southeast of Trout Lake
Wildfire Information Booth has been set up at the Walmart parking lot in Slave Lake.
The most current information and maps regarding the wildfires in the area will be available.
Saturday June 1 – 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday June 2 – 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

They are providing the following information at the booth;

Maps and wildfire information about wildfires in Slave Lake Forest Area – McMillan Complex
High Level maps and wildfire information
Wildfire Smoke and Your Health/ Mental Health – AHS materials
Evac information from AB Emergency Alert Notifications
FireSmart
Information on where evacuees are to check in from the various communities that are involved – High Level, Wabasca, Trout Lake, Sandy and Marten Beach.

PARKS

With the Evacuation Order for the Hamlet of Marten Beach the Provincial Park has closed, this means Devonshire Beach and the beach road remain closed. Fortunately Parks has granted access to Gilwood so good news for those who want to get some stress out is that the Gilwood Golf & Country Club is open for business!

We will provide another update approximately 10:30 am. Largely we continue to wait and see if the weather co-operates. The increased smoke in town will likely increase the levels of anxiety. We encourage residents affected to contact AHS and make sure they are getting all the support they need, you can find the information to do so HERE. We remain committed to communication and will update everyone in the morning.

Source: http://www.slavelake.ca/CivicAlerts.aspx?aid=666&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=facebook

 

June 1, 2019 7:00pm
As posted on the Mackenzie County Facebook page…

LIVESTOCK

If you have livestock ensure that they are in a safe pasture with limited growth, or ploughed field and far from forested areas. There should be plenty of shade and water. Discing or ploughing the outside perimeter of the field to make a fire break will help prevent wildfire from jumping into this safety field.

If you are required to evacuate and are unable to take your livestock please cut fences, open gates and leave lots of water. Take off any halters. Mark your animals with your phone number for ease of identification.

If you have no other options:
• You can drop off your cows and horses only to the Fort Vermilion community pasture, located north of Highway 35 on Range Road 140 in the Rocky Lane area.
• The manager will intake the cows and horses and monitor them.
• If you have questions, contact Jim Wieler at (780) 926-0446 or Gary Smith, Pasture Manager (780) 841-2565.

Be aware: this pasture is in the area of the evacuation alert. Use at your own risk.

Should a mandatory evacuation order be launched, pasture wires will be cut to allow the animals to fend for themselves.

 

June 1, 2019 4:20pm

 

June 1, 2019 3:45pm

Source: Mackenzie County Facebook page.

 

June 1, 2019 3:30pm

In a video posted to the Town of High Level Facebook page, Town of High Level Mayor; Crystal McAteer, discusses re-entry for High Level residents in the following statement…

“Good afternoon everybody. I know this is not the news you were expecting, and I sincerely apologize to everybody because I was positive we would be able to bring everybody home this weekend. Unfortunately, we can not control the winds, and they have circled around and we are very worried about your safety travelling.
I want to reassure people that High Level is safe, our community is safe, but other communities to the east of us may not be. So there is a lot of moving parts in this that we have to put together.
We expect to reevaluate tomorrow morning at twelve o’clock and hopefully it will be better news for you.”

 

June 1, 2019 3:15pm

As posted on the Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement Facebook page…

Chuckegg Fire Update:

Updated map and the fire still raging , we now have 100 men on the ground and they are now battling from the air as the smoke has subsided. We have lost a lot of forest and the outcome for our Metis people way of life is not going to be the same. Please continue to pray for rain.

 

June 1, 2019 2:00pm


Source: Mackenzie County Facebook Page

 

June 1, 2019 1:30pm

 

June 1, 2019 12:30pm


Source: Town of High Level Facebook Page

 

June 1, 2019 10:20am

The Town of Slave Lake remains on an 8 hour evacuation alert. This will likely continue for the foreseeable future. This is also the case for the mandatory evacuation in Marten Beach.

Some; but not significant, growth occurred last night in the McMillan wildfire number 49. The fire remains 36km from the Town of Slave Lake.

The current weather forecast of a few ml of rain will hopefully fall on parts of the fire. The Town notes it will take multiple days of rain before the comfort level of the situation would change. The biggest concern with the coming rain is accompanying lightning; which has already been seen on the north side of the fire. This lightning has the potential to ignite more fires.

 

June 1, 2019 10:00am

Chuckegg Creek Wildfire Update

The wildfire was active in behaviour yesterday with growth to the west and south. Structural and wildland firefighters worked overnight around Paddle Prairie and will continue to do so today in an effort to protect values as the fire remains aggressive in the area.

Firefighters continue to build up containment to the east of the Peace River, and along Highway 35. The construction of fire guards is being done with heavy equipment to north of High Level in an effort to limit further spread of the fire towards Hutch Lake. With thick smoke remaining present, it has resulted in the safe ability of crews to operate at times south of Paddle Prairie and on the west side of the fire.

Firefighters also completed a successful burn off by Boyer Towers to the east side of the fire helping to protect the towers and limit the fires ability to progress further east.

Some precipitation is forecasted for today, but it comes with a chance thunderstorms. This will be alongside variable and gusty winds which can be a challenge to crews.

The last recorded size of the wildfire is approximately 280,000 hectares.

 

June 1, 2019 9:00am

June 1, 2019, 5:00am

Source: wildfire.alberta.ca/files/firemap.pdf

May 31, 2019, 10:15pm

 

May 31, 2019 9:00pm

Jackpot Creek Wildfire around Steen River remains Out of Control… now over 24,000 hectares.

Chuckegg Creek Fire – Active to the South and West today.  Structural firefighters continue to work in Paddle Prairie – Alberta Emergency Alert extended mandatory evacuation in the area.  Completed successful controlled burn on east side near Boyer Towers.  Containment work continues to the East of Peace River and North of High Level (Hutch Lake) to limit spread.  Tomorrows forecast calls for possible thunderstorms / precipitation and gusting winds from the East.

May 31-1

McMillan Complex Wildfire Update – no significant movement today.  Community protection was established in Trout Lake & Marten River.  Successful controlled burn on west side of Wabasca.   Distance to closest communities – 5.7 & 4.5 kilometres west of Wabasca No. 166B and 166D, 23 kilometres northeast of Marten Beach, 33.5 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake, 13.8 kilometres southeast of Trout Lake.


Source: wildfire.alberta.ca/files/firemap.pdf

 

May 31, 2019, 6:53pm
Alberta Emergency Alert Update-County of Northern Lights…

The wildfire in the Paddle Prairie area has increased in intensity and all persons in the Keg River area must immediately evacuate to the South via Highway 35 to the Town of Manning. Keg River, Carcajou, and everyone in the north area of the County of Northern Lights south to Township Rd. 922 were ordered to evacuate on May 29, and this order is still in affect.

Anyone still in the Keg River, Carcajou, and residents living in the northern border of the County of Northern Lights south to Township Rd. 922, must evacuate immediately to Manning, traveling south on Highway 35. This is an evacuated area and the wildfire in the area is intensifying and the area is not safe.

Go to 511.alberta.ca for up to date Road Report information.

 

May 31, 2019, 6:30pm
The federal government is sending military aid in the form of personnel and planes to help with the evacuation efforts of the wildfires in the areas of High Level and Slave Lake.  Assistance will be provided with evacuations and medical aid, among other things.

 

May 31, 2019, 3:40pm

 

May 31, 2019, 2:30pm

Most recent map of McMillan Complex Wildfire available at 1:30pm

May 31, 11:15 am

May 31, 2019, 11:00 am
Chuckegg Creek wildfire update – Firefighters continue working on priority areas trying to contain the fire with heavy equipment and aircraft along highway 35, 58 as well as Paddle Prairie and east of the Peace River. Structural firefighters continue to focus in critical areas including Paddle Prairie, east of the Peace River and areas south of the fire from Keg River up to Carcajou.  Firefighters are  also trying to contain growth towards Hutch Lake north of High Level.  No significant precipitation expected, winds forecasted from the East.

According to an Alberta 511 Tweet, HWY 35 N of High Level from Hutch Lake to the NWT boarder is open to all traffic. The highway and wildfire situation is being closely monitored and the highway may close without warning if conditions change or travel is no longer possible.

 

May 31, 2019, 8:00am
There is now a Mandatory Evacuation of Trout Lake

May 30, 2019, 11:20pm

View image on Twitter

May 30, 2019, 11:15

View image on Twitter

May 30, 2019, 10pm
The Battle Complex Wildfire near Manning remains out of control, however, fire activity was reduced today thanks to a combination of cooler temperatures / humidity / smoke.   Smoke did prevent aircraft from battling the blaze.

May 30, 2019, 9:30pm
The Town of Slave Lake continues to be on an 8 hour evacuation watch.  All schools are closed tomorrow.  Water tanks continue to be filled and placed around town as a precautionary measure.  Watch the Town website for updates.  As of this time, tomorrows forecast calls for temperatures in the low 20s accompanied by moderate easterly winds 12-18 km/hr.

May 30, 2019, 7:20pm
Thus far, the La Crete Ferry and La Crete Campground remain untouched by the fire. The entire area; including the road, still remains closed.

May 30, 2019 7:14pm

May 30, 2019, 7:00pm
SRD is reporting that lower temperatures and relative humidity reduced wildfire behavior today.  McMillan Wildfire Complex wildfire remains approximately 6.5 kilometres west of Wabasca No. 166B and 166D, 23 kilometres northeast of Marten Beach and 36 kilometres northeast of Slave Lake

According to a post on the Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement Facebook page, 14 homes have been lost so far due to the Chuckegg Wildfire.

May 30, 2019, 6:51pm

May 30th, 2019, 6:30pm
At this time, the Town of Slave Lake remains on an 8 hour evacuation alert, with the town not in any imminent danger.

The fire has not moved significantly during the day from this morning’s approximate 34km distance from the town.

As precaution there are 6 water tanks around the Town of Slave Lake and 4 around Marten Beach.

The Town of Slave Lake reception centre located at the Legacy Centre will close at 9pm tonight, reopening at 8am tomorrow.

 

May 30th, 2019, 2:20pm

 

May 30th, 2019, 1:00pm
An update on all the alerts for the Slave Lake Area:

Mandatory Evacuation for Chipewyan Lakes, The Hamlet of Wabasca, and Bigstone Cree Nation.

Alberta Emergency Alert for the evacuation of Marten Beach and Lesser Slave Provincial Park.

An Alert for The Town of Slave Lake and Trout Lake.
The alert in Slave Lake has been adjusted to a two hour evacuation notice.  By on stand by to evacuate if necessary.

View image on Twitter

Battle Complex Wildfire Map May 30, 2019 12:00pm

May 30th, 2019, 11:22am
The Municipal District of Lesser Slave River has declared a Local State of Emergency due to wildfires in the Marten Hills.
The hamlet of Marten Beach is to be evacuated immediately.

 

May 30th, 2019, 11:00am
In the latest report from SRD states that The Chuckegg Creek Fire near High Level did experience extreme fire behaviour yesterday.
There was significant growth heading South towards Paddle Prairie, across Highway 35 by Highway 697, and even across the Peace River.
The hot and dry conditions along with gusting winds have proved to be a challenge to firefighting efforts and safety.
Municipal firefighters and heavy equipment responded with establishing structure protection as close as possible to the south of the fire.
The fire also grew to the west, and to the north near Watt Mountain.

Firefighters, heavy equipment, and aircraft are assessing the situation and will divide their focus on priority areas.

The weather forecast today is calling for cooler temperatures and higher minimum relative humidity. However, winds are expected to remain gusty, and mainly from the North.

The last recorded size of the High Level Fire is approximately 230,000 hectares.

 

May 30th, 2019, 10:00am

Update from The Town of Slave Lake:

Currently the Town of Slave Lake is not at threat of imminent danger, however due to extremely dry conditions and unstable fire activity the Town of Slave Lake is on a 8 hour Evacuation Alert (this is not an Evacuation Order at this time). Residents should prepare to be able to evacuate the community on short notice. Please ensure you have any required medication/prescriptions, a supply of drinking water and food and have a full tank of gas in your vehicle. You may also wish to bring along important documents such as passports, identifications, insurance policies, etc. Please also consider arrangements for your pets should you be required to leave the community.

 

May 30th, 2019, 8:30am

May 30th, 2019, 8am
Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement reports that they are putting out grass fires by the highway and along the creek, but there are no structures lost in the community.
This after Vice Chair Lori Wanuch of the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement Council reported through the night that homes had been lost.

May 30th, 2019, 6:34am
511 Alberta Reports all the Road Closures due to the Wildfires:
– Highway #35, Township Road 922, to South of High Level
– Highway #692 near Hawk Hills
– Highway #695 to Keg River
– The La Crete Ferry
– Highway #697, Junction Highway #35 to Range Road 185
– Highway #35, Hutch Lake to Northwest Territories
– Highway #58, High Level to approximately 90 km West of High Level
– Highway #754 closed from Highway #88 to Wabasca

 

May 29th, 2019, 9:35pm
The Town of Peace River has informed evacuees that due to the steady influx of people heading to the Reception Centre, hotel rooms in Peace River are now at full capacity.
It’s recommend that new evacuees who require lodging go to the High Prairie Reception Centre at the Gordon Buchanan Center, 5409 49 St.
Space is available at local campgrounds, including Rendez-Vous RV Park, where 70 sites are available.

 

May 29th, 2019, 8:30pm
An Evacuation Alert has been issued for the Town of Manning and residents to the North.

 

May 29th, 2019, 5:18pm

 

May 29th, 2019, 3:00pm

 

May 29th, 2019, 2:00pm

 

May 29th, 2019, 7:00am

FREE COMMUNITY MEALS in Peace River!

Wednesday, May 29th – Pancake Breakfast 9-11 at the Sagitawa Friendship Centre in Peace River. 10108 100 AVE

Thursday, May 30th – Chili Lunch 12-2 at the Sagitawa Friendship Centre in Peace River. 10108 100 AVE

Friday, May 31st – BBQ from 11-2 at Go Auto (Peace River Ford & Chrysler) in Peace River. 9702-74 Street

Friday, May 31st – Spaghetti Dinner from 5-7 at the Sagitawa Friendship Centre in Peace River. 10108 100 AVE

 

May 28th, 2019, 6:30pm

 

May 28th, 2019, 5:00pm

 

May 27th, 2019, 10:30pm

The latest update on the wildfire in The County of Northern Lights

 

May 27th, 2019, 9:00pm

The latest update shows that the Chuckegg Fire near High Level has grown to 127,000 hectares.
Firefighters continue to protect the community and surrounding infrastructure.
Hotter Temperatures and variable winds could bring poor conditions tomorrow.

 

May 27th, 2019, 2:17pm

BREAKING NEWS:
High Level Mayor Crystal McAteer announces that residents could start returning home as soon as this weekend.

 

May 27th, 2019, 10:00am

Due to the influx of evacuees, this afternoon and evening hotel rooms in Peace River are now at capacity. As a result, we recommend new evacuees who require lodging head to the High Prairie Reception Centre at the Gordon Buchanan Center, 5409 49 St.

Near Peace River space is available at local campgrounds, including Rendez-Vous RV Park where 70 sites are available.

The Peace River Reception Centre opens at 9am on May 30 and will be able to help register new evacuees who are able to camp or renew hotel stays.

 

May 27th, 2019, 10:00am

Evacuees can now apply for the one-time Alberta Government Payment at the Reception Centres.
Government Representatives are on hand to help with the process.
Each adult displaced by the Wildfires will be entitled to $1250, while each child will receive $500.

 

May 26th, 2019, 9:15pm

 

May 26th, 2019, 9:12pm

Due to the out of control wildfire 14 kilometers southeast of Trout Lake, Peerless Trout First Nation is on Evacuation Alert.

 

May 26th, 2019, 8:55pm

A new wildfire has started 14 kilometers southeast of Trout Lake.
Its classified as out of control and is estimated to be 300 hectares in size.

 

May 26th, 2019, 6:00pm

Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement has issued an Evacuation Order.
The evacuation will be carried out in zones.
Residents are recommended to secure their homes, take any personal belongings like pets, identification, medication, and a small denomination of cash.
Within your homes please ensure all fuel and gas appliances are shut off, and hot water tanks are turned down if you’re able to.

There are limitations on luggage if you’re using the provided bus transportation.

recommended evacuation route is Highway #35 South to Highway #2, and then continue South to Grande Prairie.

 

May 26th, 2019, 12:00pm

The process of applying for the one-time Alberta Government Evacuee Payment has begun online at www.alberta.ca/emergency
Each adult displaced by the Wildfires will be entitled to $1250, while each child will receive $500.

 

May 26th, 2019, 11:15am

The La Crete Reception Centre has updated their required items for donation.

 

May 26th, 2019, 9:46am

Fort Vermilion School Division Superintendent Mike McMann has given an update on Schools in the Mackenzie.

The schools that will resume classes on Monday:

Rainbow Lake Community School
Blue Hills Community School
Buffalo Head Prairie Community School
Hill Crest Community School
La Crete Learning Store

The schools that will remain closed until the evacuation order has been lifted by the town of High Level:

Rocky Lane Community School
Upper Hay River School
Spirit of the North Community School
Florence MacDougall Community School
High Level Public School
High Level Learning Store

The schools that will remain closed until the Evacuation Centers in Fort Vermilion and La Crete are closed:

Fort Vermilion Public School
St. Mary’s Elementary School
Fort Vermilion Learning Store
Sandhills Elementary School
Ridgeview Central School
La Crete Public School

 

May 25th, 2019, 9:15pm

 

May 25th, 2019, 9:00pm

The Chuckegg Fire has reached over 105,000 hectares in size, and remains 3 km outside of the town of High Level.

 

May 25th, 2019, 6:49pm

Alberta Wildfire has informed the public that Slave Lake Wildfire 49 is approximately 1 kilometre north of highway 754 on the southeast flank.
For the safety of the public, RCMP have closed highway 754 at the junction of highway 754 and highway 88 at Wabasca.
Air tankers and helicopters are on scene battling the Wildfire.

 

May 25th, 2019, 5:18pm

The Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement has issued a Local State of Emergency.
Residents are to be on stand by in case of evacuation.

 

May 25th, 2019, 11:00am

The Chuckegg Fire outside of High Level is approaching 100,000 hectares.
Last official recorded size is 99,250 hectares.
Firefighters completed a successful controlled burn to create a containment boundary along highway 35 south of High Level, and along highway 58 west of High Level.
The power that has returned to the area is expected to be intermittent over the next few days.

 

May 25th, 2019, 8:00am

Manning Fire Department Personnel will be conducting hazard reduction work for residents along range road 240 today.

 

May 24th, 2019, 7:50pm

 

May 24th, 2019, 7:10pm

 

May 24th, 2019, 6:02pm

The Peace River Reception Centre reports at closing that they now have 506 evacuees registered.
Today 5200 bottles of water were handed out.

 

May 24th, 2019, 6:00pm

The province has announced that funding is coming for evacuees.
Each person will be entitled to $1250, while each child will receive $500.

 

May 24th, 2019, 1:00pm

A message from The Town of Peace River:

A big thank you to Rosenau Transport Ltd. for lending us the use of their refrigerated trailer for storage.
Late last night we had 38,000 bottles of water delivered from the Government of Alberta, the trailer will help store the water as we distribute it and keep it cool for families.
Also, a big thank you to Peace River’s Tim Horton’s, McDonald’s, and Subway locations who have donated $3200 in gift cards to help keep evacuees fed.

 

May 24th, 2019, 9:30am

 

May 23rd, 2019, 8:00pm

The latest update on the Battle Complex Wildfire, along with a status map.

 

May 23rd, 2019, 3:25pm

After a huge outpouring of support from people across Northern Alberta, the Reception Centres in The Mackenzie have announced that they no longer need donations.

 

May 23rd, 2019, 2:57pm

 

May 23rd, 2019, 11:36am

Animal Product Donations are required.
Cat Litter, Litter Boxes, Dog Kennels, Cat Carriers.
Donations can be dropped off at the Peace Regional SPCA.

 

May 23rd, 2019, 10:50am

 

May 22nd, 2019, 9:30pm

 

May 22nd, 2019, 8:57pm

The Reception Centre has revealed that 434 people have been registered in the past 48 hours.
70 hotel rooms have been booked for evacuees.

 

May 22nd, 2019, 8:00pm

The town of High Level have informed residents that structural protection of the southwest side of the community has been completed.
They’re currently working on the Northwest side.
Approximately 130 municipal firefighters continue to safeguard and protect the town and county.

May 22nd, 2019, 6:55pm

 

May 22nd, 2019, 6:10pm

An update on power in The Mackenzie:
ATCO has successfully restored power to Mackenzie County, the Town of High Level, La Crete, Fort Vermilion, Dene Tha’ First Nation and surrounding communities.
Severe damage occurred to 68 structures from the two transmission lines that provide electricity to these communities.

May 22nd, 2019, 6:00pm

 

May 22nd, 2019, 3:30pm

Animal Control has arrived in High Level. They are collecting pets that have been left behind in High Level and area.
All pets will be moved to a safe location outside of the Town.
If you have left your house hold pet behind you’re asked to call 780-926-2201.

 

May 22nd, 2019, 2:00pm

A Fire Ban & Off Road Vehicle Restriction is now in place for most of Northern Alberta.
Info on your area can be found at www.albertafirebans.ca

 

May 22nd, 2019, 10:00am

Firefighters are currently, doing some hazard reduction burning around High Level.
It’s in anticipation of a larger operation this afternoon. Therefore smoke will be seen close to town.
A Hazard Reduction Burn helps protect the community by removing combustible debris and dry grass.

 

May 22nd, 2019, 9:00am

 

May 21st, 2019, 8:12pm

Press Release from ATCO

Statement from Atco Electric:

1. Unfortunately, the ongoing wildfires in the High Level and Mackenzie County area have affected electric transmission lines servicing the High Level and Le Crete communities.
2. This fire continues to provide a threat to critical electrical infrastructure.
3. We currently have a crew of close to 50 ATCO employees and contractors working safely and diligently to replace damaged structures, wherever we can do so safely.
4. Our priority is to restore service to our customers as quickly and safely as possible.
5. We are going to attempt to restore power with an interim solution later this evening, however any restoration of power may be intermittent due to the volatile fire conditions.
6. For those communities under voluntary evacuation, please use this opportunity to refuel your vehicles.
7. We are also in the process of securing large-scale back up generation which will be available Friday at the earliest.
8. We are working closely with the Town of High Level, Mackenzie County and emergency response teams to coordinate our efforts within the community.
9. Above all, the health and safety of our employees, our customers and the community remains our top priority. Please continue to look after yourselves and each other as we work to restore reliable service to the affected areas.

 

May 21st, 2019, 6:43pm

Statement from Crystal McAteer, Mayor of High Level

First, of all, I would like to reassure the citizens that the Town of High Level has been fully evacuated. Our amazing fire crews are doing everything possible to protect the properties, the homes and the community.

The RCMP is doing a fantastic job patrolling the town site and ensuring only those people who need to be in our community are allowed inside.

The High Level Fire Department has deployed sprinklers along the southwest side of town, and are now switching their attention to the north side.

I truly appreciate the safe and orderly evacuation that occurred yesterday, and the total cooperation I observed.

I want to thank the surrounding communities for welcoming the people of High Level and area to their communities. You have helped make the evacuation as smooth and painless as possible.

I have some concerns about the residents of White Spruce Village. So far, only two seniors have registered at the evacuation centres. If you know where other seniors are, please call the front desk at 780-926-2201.

I am also concerned about the pets some people left at home, in their garages and back yards, when they evacuated. We have volunteers who can check on your pets and ensure they are safe, watered and fed.

Thank you to the amazing volunteers in High Level and the surrounding area who called and offered help. I greatly appreciate your kind offers.

Please contact the Town of High Level at 780 926-2201 to register, tell us where the seniors are located or indicate if you left a pet behind. I look forward to providing a further update on the situation tomorrow.

 

May 21st, 2019, 4:30pm

 

May 21st, 2019, 4:00pm

 

May 21st, 2019, 3:20pm

The Chuckegg Creek fire has grown due to warm temperatures and strong winds. This fire is approximately 79, 805 hectares. This fire is located approximately 3 km south of the Town of High Level and remains classified as Out of Control (OC). Due to current conditions and resources the fire has not reached the Town of High Level.
– Due to strong southeast winds yesterday, the main area of spread was on the northwest side of the fire, away from town. Firefighters along with air support from helicopters and air tankers have been focusing efforts on the east side of highway 35 and continue to be effective with the current conditions.
– Heavy equipment continues to make progress on consolidating a guard around the Town of High Level and parts of the fire perimeter. Heavy equipment worked through the night to secure the perimeter on the east side of the fire.
– Air tankers and helicopters worked to slow the spread, south of the Town of High Level, yesterday and will be focusing efforts there again today.
– Alberta Wildfire has 76, Firefighters on this fire. Approximately 100 firefighters are enroute, today. With more firefighters to arrive throughout the week.

 

May 21st, 2019, 9:00am

In a statement from the Twon of High Level they are assuring people that there is no immediate threat to the community from the wildfire burning to the southwest of town.
The Town of High Level was successfully evacuated as of 10:00 p.m. last night.
Reception Centres are set up in La Crete, Slave Lake, and High Prairie.
Fire crews from across the Province continue to work within the Town of High Level and Mackenzie County. The sprinkler plan has been completely implemented.
RCMP and protective services staff have worked throughout the night and continue to ensure the community is safe.
Atco Power is continuing work to restore power to High Level and the surrounding communities.

May 20th, 2019, 6:52pm

Statement from Atco Electric:

Ongoing wildfires in the High Level area have affected electric transmission lines servicing the High Level and La Crete communities. Our crews worked diligently through the day and replaced damaged structures as planned. There were more structures damaged today due to fire activity. Our crews will be back tomorrow at daybreak, and providing we can work safely, we will replace the additional poles.

Service will not be restored until Tuesday evening at the earliest, pending favorable conditions. Our crews are responding as quickly and safely as possible to restore service to our customers. We are working closely with the Town of High Level, Mackenzie County and emergency response personnel to coordinate our efforts within the community.

 

May 20th, 2019, 10:15pm

 

May 20th, 2019, 5:36pm

Mackenzie County has issued a voluntary evacuation order for North of High Level.

 

 

May 20th, 2019, 4:00pm

THE TOWN OF HIGH LEVEL HAS ISSUED AN EVACUATION ORDER.
The evacuation will be carried out in zones.
Residents are recommended to secure their homes, take any personal belongings like pets, identification, medication, and a small denomination of cash.
Within your homes please ensure all fuel and gas appliances are shut off, and hot water tanks are turned down if you’re able to.

Recommended Evacuation Routes are Highway 58 East and Highway 88 South.

There are limitations on luggage if you’re using the provided bus transportation.

 

 

May 20th, 2019, 11:40am

Mackenzie County has declared a State of Local Emergency and has issued a mandatory evacuation for residents living South and Southeast of the Town of High Level (see map below).
All evacuees must register at the High Level Arena (10101 105 Ave). Crews will be going door to door to notify affected residents.

 

 

May 20th, 2019, 11:22am

As a result of the fire behavior over the last few days The Town of High Level is now issuing an Evacuation Alert for High Level and area.
The purpose of the Evacuation Alert is to inform residents of a potential or current threat which could lead to an Evacuation Order.

 

May 20th, 2019, 10:05am

An update from The Town of High Level is assuring people that the town remains in no immediate danger, but residents are recommended to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if conditions change.
The eastern flank of the fire had slow growth over night. The High Level Fire Department will begin Sprinkler protection operations today in town and at the Tolko mill.

 

May 20th, 2019, 9:15am

The power is out in the entire north and east regions of The Mackenzie, including the of Town of High Level, First Nation Reserves and all of Mackenzie County.
Atco Electric is working to restore the electricity with an estimated time of 6-8 hours.

 

May 20th, 2019, 8:35am

 

May 19th, 2019, 9:56pm

The town of High Level remains in no immediate danger, but residents are recommended to remain vigilant and be prepared to evacuate if conditions change.
Alberta Wildfire Management will monitor the fire through the night and will immediately notify the Town if there is any change in the direction of the fire.
The Town will provide an update if there is any change in the current status of the wildfire and will continue with regular updates tomorrow morning.

 

May 19th, 2019, 8:00pm

An update courtesy of the Town of High Level:

The Town of High Level Emergency Management Staff, Mayor McAteer, and Alberta Wildfire Management had a meeting regarding the wildfire burning Southwest of town.
The main growth of the fire continues to spread to the North and West and has now crossed Highway 58.
The town remains in no immediate danger, but residents are recommended to remain vigilant and prepared to evacuate if conditions change.
ATCO Electric does not expect any disruption to the power supply at this time.
Alberta Transportation have closed Highway 35 South of the Town of High Level. A detour is in place using Highway 697 and Highway 88.
Alberta Transportation have closed Highway 58 West of the town of High Level. A detour is in place via the Zama Road.