The province of Alberta is currently grappling with a surge in wildfire activity, exacerbated by extreme heat and dry conditions. As of today, the situation has necessitated evacuation alerts for several communities and has mobilized extensive firefighting resources across the region.
Yesterday, at 6 p.m., the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RWMB) issued an evacuation alert for the hamlet of Janvier and the Janvier 194 community of the Chipewyan Prairie First Nation. This alert was prompted by a nearby wildfire, which, while not immediately threatening the communities, poses a significant risk due to smoke. Residents have been advised to be prepared to leave on short notice.
Similarly, the Little Red River Cree Nation remains under a State of Local Emergency, which was declared on July 10 via Band Council Resolution.
Current Wildfire Situation
The Garden River community remains under an evacuation order due to the Semo Complex Fire (HWF061). This wildfire is currently out of control, spanning over 51,000 hectares. It is situated approximately nine kilometres from Highway 58 and 30 kilometres northwest of Garden River. The fire’s proximity to key transport routes has further complicated firefighting efforts.
Meanwhile, the RWMB has issued an evacuation alert for the residents of Janvier due to a 440-hectare wildfire burning north of the Kettle River and west of Highway 881.
As of now, Alberta has recorded 875 wildfires since January 1, which have burned more than 358,000 hectares. Among these, 53 are classified as out of control, 38 are being held, 43 are under control, and 741 have been extinguished.
The Cattail Lake Complex consists of wildfires MWF047 and MWF077, both of which are out of control. MWF047, the largest in this complex, spans 101,219 hectares and is located 6.8 kilometres northeast of industrial facilities. MWF077 covers 15,206 hectares and is situated 13.7 kilometres south of industrial facilities. Firefighting efforts are being challenged by extreme fire behaviour and shifting winds.
Burning out of control in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, the Kettle River Fire covers approximately 214 hectares. It is located 15 kilometres north of Janvier, where heavy equipment and firefighters are working to create fireguards to limit its growth. Helicopters and airtankers are being utilized to contain priority areas.
The Semo Complex includes wildfires HWF053, HWF061, HWF081, HWF083, and HWF136, all of which are out of control. HWF061, the largest, spans 51,203 hectares and is located 16 kilometres northeast of Jon D’or Prairie. Firefighting efforts are focused on building fireguards and managing the active fire behaviour on the southwest perimeter.
Comprising wildfires MWF069 and MWF086, the Algar Lake Complex is also out of control. MWF069 covers 15,000 hectares and is situated 11 kilometres west of Highway 63. MWF086, a recent addition, spans 500 hectares. Despite some containment efforts, parts of these wildfires remain highly active.
Located 10 kilometres southwest of Zama City, the Amber River Fire is out of control and covers approximately 3,050 hectares. Crews are working to reinforce containment lines with the support of helicopters.
Alberta has mobilized over 1,800 personnel, 156 helicopters, and 21 aircraft to respond to the wildfires. Additionally, more than 240 firefighters and support staff, as well as three airtankers, have been brought in from other jurisdictions to assist in the firefighting efforts.
Support for Evacuees
Residents of Little Red River Cree Nation and Garden River are eligible for emergency evacuation payments as of July 16. Applications can be made online at evacuationpayment.alberta.ca, or in person at designated locations in High Level and John D’Or Prairie School. Local Alberta Supports offices are also available to assist with applications.
For more information on emergency preparedness, residents can visit Alberta’s emergency preparedness resources online.