A wildfire in northeastern Alberta has led to evacuations in the remote community of Fort Chipewyan. The fire is getting closer to the community, which is not accessible by road and can only be reached by plane or boat in the summer.
The fire started on Sunday and has grown significantly in the past two days, reaching over 3,000 hectares in size.
The authorities issued an evacuation order for the entire community on Tuesday, prioritizing the safety of vulnerable and elderly individuals.
They were asked to register at the Archie Simpson Arena, and people with pets were advised to bring them along with a leash and crate if possible.
The evacuation will be conducted in stages, starting with residents in the nearby community of Allison Bay.
Air transportation to Fort McMurray is being arranged for the evacuees, and temporary accommodations in Fort McMurray and Fort McKay are being prepared.
The majority of people will be transported out of Fort Chipewyan today. The community leaders urged residents to remain calm and wait for further instructions, explaining that evacuating in stages is necessary due to limited space at the airport.
Evacuees were instructed to report to the Archie Simpson Arena, where they would receive a wristband and be assigned a flight.
Those evacuating by boat on the Athabasca River were advised to report to Big Dock before heading south to Fort McKay or their cabins. An evacuation registration center will also be available in Fort McKay.
The fire, known as MWF025, is currently about 4 kilometres away from Allison Bay and 8 kilometres from the Fort Chipewyan airport. It is classified as out of control and was caused by lightning.
Firefighting crews, including helitack crews, bucketing helicopters, and air tanker groups, are working to contain the wildfire.
Authorities have designated this wildfire as the number one priority in the province, and resources from the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo and other parts of Alberta are being deployed to assist in the efforts.
The safety of the residents of Fort Chipewyan is the primary concern, and officials are working diligently to ensure their well-being during this challenging situation.
