Following a week of extreme wildfire behavior that included multiple fires and evacuations, Alberta is now seeing slightly improved conditions.
Cooler conditions and high humidity are aiding firefighters.
Alberta resources are bolstered by the addition of imported firefighters from across Canada and the northwestern United States,
Evacuation orders are still in effect for several communities, such as Chateh, Red Earth Creek, Loon Lake, Peerless Lake and Trout Lake.
Residents who had to leave their communities for seven or more days due to mandatory evacuation orders, are eligible for one-time emergency evacuation payments from the Alberta government.
There are 53 wildfires currently burning across Alberta in the Forest Protection Area, 24 are classified as “out of control”.
Since January 1, there have been 506 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area, burning more than 494,000 hectares.
A fire ban is still in effect for the High Level, Peace River, Grande Prairie and Slave Lake forest areas.
Under this ban, all outdoor wood fires are prohibited, and existing fire permits are suspended.
Environment Canada has issued warnings and special air quality statements due to wildfire smoke.
Meteorologists say the smoke is causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility, and conditions can vary hour by hour.
People in affected areas are reminded to limit their time outdoors and keep windows and doors closed.
– Kyle Moore, Trending 55 Newsroom
