TORONTO (Reuters) -An evacuation alert has been issued for Fort McMurray, Alberta, as an out-of-control fire rages southwest of the major Canadian oil town, making it among the first actions ahead of the wildfire season.
In a notice late on Friday, the Alberta government said the wildfire danger is “extreme” in the Fort McMurray Forest Area and out of control at 1,000 hectares (2,471 acres) in size.
It said strong winds are expected on Saturday, as a cold front continues to pass over the region. Helicopter pilots using night vision equipment surveilled the wildfire area overnight.
In 2016, a massive wildfire in Fort McMurray led to the evacuation of 90,000 residents. It also halted over a million barrels per day of oil output.
Residents in Saprea Creek Estates are also placed on alert from the municipality of Wood Buffalo. In British Columbia, the Northern Rockies Regional Municipality issued an evacuation order for the town of Fort Nelson.
The federal government has warned Canada faces another “catastrophic” wildfire season as it forecasted higher-than-normal spring and summer temperatures across much of the country, boosted by El Nino weather conditions.
Moreover, as the Alberta wildfire evacuation efforts intensify, the focus shifts to long-term recovery and prevention strategies. Community support and resources are essential for assisting evacuees and rebuilding affected areas.
Additionally, proactive measures such as forest management and fire prevention initiatives are crucial for mitigating future wildfire risks.
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