Canada: Disruptions ongoing due to multiple wildfires across Alberta as of late May 10 /update 1

Event

Emergency crews are working to contain multiple wildfires burning across Alberta as of late May 10. Authorities declared a province-wide state of emergency May 6 due to dozens of fires burning across Alberta amid hot and dry weather. As of late May 10, 77 active fires are burning across the province, with 23 out of control. Further details on 11 fires deemed as wildfires of note can be found here. More than 700 firefighters are battling the fires across Alberta, and around 1,000 reinforcements will probably arrive from other provinces in the coming days.

As of late May 10, more than 17,000 people remain evacuated, and many roads, including sections of several highways, near the wildfire complexes are closed. Details on road closures across Alberta can be found here. The worst-hit areas include Drayton Valley, about 140km (87 miles) west of Edmonton, and Fox Lake, around 550km (342 miles) north of the city, where fires have consumed more than 85 structures, including a police station. Reports also indicate damage to at least 40 structures in Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation. There is no electricity in almost all of the community, and authorities have shut off natural gas supplies.

Environment Canada has issued air quality statements across most of Alberta and northeastern and central British Columbia due to poor air quality and reduced visibility caused by the smoke from the fires. Special weather statements for unseasonably hot, dry conditions are in place across British Columbia and Alberta provinces through at least May 16. Further wildfire growth is likely. Oil producers in parts of the province have resumed some production as wildfires eased; production is likely to be fully restored once it is safe.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities could close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.

Advice

Heed all evacuation orders. Seek updated information on road conditions if driving in the affected area; road closures and detours will cause increased congestion and delays. Collect essential items - including identification and any important legal and travel documents - in an easily accessible "go-bag." Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged power outages.

Individuals not under evacuation warnings should consider remaining inside well-ventilated, air-conditioned spaces to reduce exposure to smoke. Individuals with chronic respiratory illnesses may be more susceptible to the negative effects of smoke inhalation. Eye irritation is possible; flush irritated eyes with copious amounts of clean water.

Resources

Alberta Wildfire Status
511 Alberta Road Status
Environment Canada