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Photo Courtesy Canadian Press
Wildfires

Dunes west wildfire update

May 12, 2023 | 1:04 PM

An update on the Dunes West Wildfire has been released.

Currently, the wildfire is listed still as out-of-control burning an estimated 1,581 hectares so far.

Overnight drones were used to identify hotspots, and ground crews quickly extinguished the flare-ups.

A helicopter is also flying over the area today to complete thermal mapping which will help crews with getting more information about hot spots.

A change in the Call and Reception Centre hours has also been made, now both facilities will be open 12 hours a day, 8 am to 8 pm.

Utility crews also made significant progress on repairs over the last few days, electricity and natural gas have been restored to the majority of the homes in the affected area.

Personnel crews do remain in evacuated communities, supporting temporary re-entry for residents in the evacuation area, and patrols are being conducted within the barricades.

To re-enter, evacuees must bring proof of a re-entry permit, to apply for a permit, click here.

Emergency funding from the province is available for those displaced for seven days or more. Eligible evacuees will receive $1,250 per adult and an additional $500 per dependent child under 18 years. Evacuees can apply for the payment at alberta.ca/emergency using an Alberta.ca Account.

The Dunes West Wildfire Information Line is available at 1-825-606-5092.