Canada: Authorities order evacuation of several areas near Fort McMurray amid wildfire threat as of May 14; emergency response ongoing

As of May 14, Alberta officials have ordered several communities evacuations as emergency crews continue working to contain a wildfire burning near Fort McMurray. Officials have placed mandatory evacuations for Abasand, Beacon Hill, Grayling Terrace, Gregoire Lake Estates, Prairie Creek, and Saprae Creek, effective from 16:00 on May 14, and have closed all schools in the impacted area until at least May 21. Authorities have closed northbound Highway 63 lanes; however, southbound lanes remain open to facilitate evacuations. The wildfire is located 13 km (8 miles) west of Highway 63 and 881 junction and southwest of Fort McMurray landfill. The wildfire has burned approximately 9,602 hectares (23,734 acres).

Environment Canada has issued special air quality statements for parts of northeastern Alberta due to the impact of smoke from the wildfire near Fort McMurray. The wildfire may disrupt telecommunications in the impacted area and may also damage power lines and other electricity infrastructure, causing intermittent power outages to be possible in affected areas.

Depending on the progression of the wildfires, the status of nearby roads could change over the coming hours and days. Authorities will likely close additional routes within the wildfire complexes and evacuate more communities due to fire activity and the needs of response operators. Residents' return 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.