An evacuation order has been issued for the Westridge subdivision in Woodlands County.
A wildfire is burning out of control, east of Range Road 114 and south of Highway 43.
This alert is in effect for everyone south of Highway 43, from the West Ridge subdivision (Range Road 114), east to and including Range Road 111A in Woodlands County.
Everyone in the affected area must evacuate immediately. Gather pets, important documentation, and medication. Register at the evacuation reception center at the Allan and Jean Millar Centre, at 58 Sunset Blvd. in Whitecourt.
Woodlands County officials say further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
Smoke from the fire seen from the town of Whitecourt. Photo Credit: Neil Shewchuk
While no alerts are issued for the town of Whitecourt, residents are advised to be prepared with an emergency plan and emergency kit in your home and car.
Further updates will be provided as they become available.
For more information, you can check the Alberta Emergency Alert website.
According to Alberta Wildfire, WWF017 was detected Monday afternoon and is burning out of control. The wildfire is located in the area of West Ridge and is approximately 3.5 km southeast of the Town of Whitecourt and is 1 km to Highway 43. It is currently 55 ha.
Due to current wind conditions, provincial officials say the wildfire is moving east away from the town of Whitecourt and has stayed south of Highway 43.
There are firefighters, helicopters, heavy equipment, and airtankers actively fighting this fire. Local municipal fire departments are also helping to fight the wildfire.
Photo Credit: Neil Shewchuk
Firefighters are observing extreme fire behaviour and will continue suppression efforts alongside aircraft into the night. Night-vision equipped helicopters has been requested for the overnight period when fire behaviour is expected to be lower due to cooler conditions.
The cause of the wildfire remains under investigation.
The Whitecourt Forest Area is currently under a Fire Advisory, meaning any burning without a valid fire permit is prohibited, except for campfires. Click here for more details on the Fire Advisory.
