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(wildfire.alberta.ca)
Wildfires

Wildfire near Nordegg forces two-hour evacuation alert for residents and visitors

Jul 21, 2022 | 2:20 PM

Clearwater County has issued an Evacuation Order for Snow Creek PRA, Dry Haven PRA, Centre for Outdoor Education, Fish Lake PRA, Frontier Lodge and Goldeye Lake PRA and area.

County officials say residents and visitors to the area are asked to leave immediately.

A two-hour evacuation alert is also issued for the hamlet of Nordegg (North and South subdivisions).

Residents and visitors in the Nordegg area are asked to be prepared to leave within two hours of being notified.

Evacuees with holiday trailers/campers needing overnight location for lodging can relocate to the North Saskatchewan River Park in Rocky Mountain House located at 394024 Range Road 7-3A. Be Prepared.

According to wildfire.alberta.ca, this wildfire is about 200 hectares in size and located approximately 19 kilometres west of Nordegg. It is classified as out of control, despite wildland firefighters, as well as helicopters and an airtanker working on this wildfire with additional resources on the way.

The blaze was discovered on July 19 and initially responded well to firefighting efforts, say provincial officials. However, the increased temperatures, low relative humidity and winds on July 20 saw an increase in wildfire behaviour, resulting in firefighting efforts being less effective.

According to 511 Alberta, there is smoke along HWY-11 in both directions near Township Road 393A. Also, Highway 11 in the Big Horn Reserve area, west of Nordegg, where smoke in the area is affecting visibility. Motorists are asked to drive with caution, with no stopping on the highway.

Since January 1, there have been 39 wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area which have burned 47.56 hectares, say provincial officials. Also since January 1, there have been 656 wildfires in Alberta which have burned 97,395 hectares.

You can report smoke or fire in the forest by calling 310-FIRE (3473).

For current wildfire status, go to wildfire.alberta.ca/ for more information. Go to 511.alberta.ca for up to date road report information.

Officials say this information will be updated, as required, by 11 a.m., July 21.

To learn how you can prepare for a wildfire, visit alberta.ca/Wildfires and alberta.ca.