Canada: Emergency crews continue to respond to wildfire burning near Fort McMurray, Alberta, as of May 17 /update 1

Emergency crews continue to respond to a wildfire burning near Fort McMurray, Alberta, as of May 17. As of May 16, the fire to the southwest of Fort McMurray was around 19,820 hectares (48,976 acres) in size and the closest point of the fire remains about 5.5 km (3.4 miles) from the Fort McMurray landfill and 4.5 km (2.8 miles) from the intersection of highways 63 and 881. Rainfall and cooler temperatures in the past couple of days have aided firefighters in reducing fire activity; however, the wildfire remains out of control.

An evacuation order remains in effect for the communities of Prairie Creek, Beacon Hill, Abasand, and Grayling Terrace and an evacuation alert remains in place for the rest of Fort McMurray, Saprae Creek, Gregoire Lake Estates, Fort McMurray 468 First Nation, and Anzac. Those evacuated have been told to plan to be gone until at least May 21.

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.