Photo Courtesy Government of Alberta

By Tanner Smith

Wildfires

Premier Smith makes announcement regarding provincial wildfire situation

May 6, 2023 | 1:53 PM

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith made an announcement regarding the Wildfire situation in Alberta Saturday.

Premier Smith said in her announcement she has convened the Emergency Management Cabinet Committee to monitor the situation and keep the number one priority on public safety.

Smith provided an update along with some facts for Albertans regarding the current provincial wildfire situation.

“Many municipalities and parks have also introduced bans to reduce human-caused wildfires.These decisions were made due to the extremely warm weather and strong winds the province is facing particularly in northern Alberta.These conditions mean it’s very easy for both a wildfire to start and spread quickly.

“In terms of statistics, here is the information that is available. As of 9:30 a.m. this morning (Saturday), there are currently 103, active wildfires in Alberta burning 121,909 hectares. Since 11 a.m. yesterday (Friday), there have been 45 new wildfire starts, 14 states of local emergency, and two band council resolutions have been declared by local governments, and Indigenous leadership, and in total, we have seen 24, 511 Albertans, evacuated from their homes, to ensure their safety. “

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She added in her announcement officials will be meeting and deliberating on all possible options regarding the wildfire situation later today, which will include the potential of a provincial State of Emergency.

An announcement from officials is planned for 5 p.m.

Smith also provided provincial lines and services Albertans can use to get up-to-date information and support.

“I want to give contact information for any Albertan who has been impacted by the wildfires. The Wildfire Resource Line is 310- 4455. That’ll be a common call center where you’ll be able to get any updates that you need on evacuation services.”

“People can also visit Alberta.ca. We’re making it very easy where the information on the wildfires is readily available through a banner, and in addition to that, if you want to follow the immediate updates that happen on Twitter.”

She also thanked all firefighters, community officials, and Albertans for their bravery and willingness to help one another, at this time.

” We have seen our firefighters and first responders bravely step up as they always do. Municipal Leadership in all affected communities and their neighboring towns and cities have also stepped up and Albertans are lending a helping hand to their neighbors because that’s what we do as Albertans.”

“We are strong and resilient and we look out for one another. We will tackle this challenge head-on and we will recover and rebuild together.”

For more information regarding the wildfire situation in the Peace region, visit Alberta Wildfires, or our social feeds.