Alberta Declares State of Emergency Over Wildfires Threatening Communities
The western Canadian province of Alberta is facing 110 active wildfires, with 37 out of control. Officials have reported that the number of evacuees has surged to around 29,000, up from 24,000 on Saturday. The province’s Premier, Danielle Smith, declared a state of emergency on Saturday after reviewing the state of the blazes. “With so much kindling, all it takes is a few sparks to ignite some truly frightening wildfires,” said Smith.
Over 20 communities have been evacuated, and at least 122,000 hectares have burned so far. The government will be able to mobilize additional resources and unlock emergency funds. It will also be able to wield greater powers to respond to extreme situations.
Two out-of-control wildfires in neighbouring British Columbia have also caused people to leave their homes, and officials have warned that they expect high winds to cause the blazes to grow in the next few days.
Cooler Temperatures and a Bit of Rain Bring Some Relief
Fire crews battled the wildfires threatening communities in western Canada on Sunday. Cooler temperatures and a bit of rain brought some relief, but officials warned that the reprieve came only in some areas. Provincial officials in Alberta said the weather forecast was favourable for the next few days, with small amounts of rain and overcast conditions. But they cautioned that hot and dry conditions were predicted to return within a few days.
Damage Reports are Not Yet Available
Colin Blair, executive director of the Alberta Emergency Management Agency, said that accurate damage reports were not yet available because conditions made it difficult to assess the situation. Buildings, including 20 homes, a police station, and a store, were destroyed in the town of Fox Lake. Residents had to be evacuated by helicopter or boat.
Growing Concerns of Wildfires Hitting Oil Refineries
Moreover, amid fears of the wildfires degenerating even more, there is a growing concern that the flames may hit oil refineries on the territory. Alberta is Canada’s largest oil and natural gas producer. Although authorities are closely monitoring the situation, so far, there are no reported disruptions in production.
In conclusion, wildfires continue to threaten the western Canadian province of Alberta, with over 110 active fires and 37 out of control. Over 20 communities have been evacuated, and at least 122,000 hectares have burned so far. Although cooler temperatures and a bit of rain have brought some relief, officials warn that the reprieve only comes in some areas. Meanwhile, there are concerns that the wildfires may hit oil refineries on the territory, but so far, there are no reported disruptions in production. The Alberta government has declared a state of emergency and can now wield greater powers to respond to extreme situations.
SOURCE: Ref – euronews with AP
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