Over the past 25 days, officials with Yellowhead County say they have been dealing with multiple large wildfires. Combined, these fires are said to have impacted more than 232,000 ha in communities across the County.
Officials say several areas have been evacuated over this time, with some communities having to evacuate more than once. Devastatingly, the County says there have been homes and other structures lost and damaged by the wildfires. Yellowhead County thanks everyone for their strength and resilience throughout this situation.
On Tuesday at 3:00 p.m., it was announced to residents that were in the evacuation zone near Shining Bank Lake that residents could return home at 4:00 p.m. on May 23.
Residents from west of the McLeod River will no longer be under an evacuation alert upon their return. Residents east of the McLeod River will remain on a 30-minute evacuation notice in case
conditions change. These areas will only allow local traffic to enter due to the active wildfire and the hazards that currently exist in the area, such as dangerous trees and potentially downed power poles.
Officials say the recent change in weather, including some much-needed precipitation, has the many crews and organizations working in the wildfire complexes feeling cautiously optimistic. They will continue to make strategic decisions to take as much advantage of these conditions as they can.
Structural protection will be removed from some areas in Yellowhead County over the next week. This will only be done in areas where crews are confident that it is safe to remove. It is important to have this equipment available for areas that need it.
County officials ask that residents do not tamper with, move, or remove firefighting equipment that is strategically placed throughout the County. Doing so will not only hamper firefighting efforts, but it can also result in theft and/or mischief charges, which are serious offences under the criminal code and can result in a criminal record.
Yellowhead County would also like to request the cooperation of residents when it comes to the safety of its crews, staff, and for residents themselves. Motorists are reminded to drive safely and for the conditions, and be aware that crews will be in areas throughout the County. Treat these crews with respect and kindness when you see them. Harassment will not be tolerated.
Thank you to the fire crews from across North America, as well as the many staff members who have worked tirelessly throughout this situation. Yellowhead County thanks those residents who have worked alongside them, those who have stepped up to help their friends and neighbours, and those who have continued to show cooperation and kindness throughout this difficult time.
The wildfire situation in Yellowhead County is not over, but officials say their teams continue to do all they can to protect residents and communities. For the most up-to-date information on the wildfires, visit https://srd.web.alberta.ca/edson-area-update.
All important updates will be posted on www.yhcounty.ca and on our Facebook page www.facebook. com/yellowheadcounty. Those with evacuation-related questions can call 1-833-334-4630 (only active during the emergency).
