Wildfire crews watching for dangerous wind shift, another fire burns near Trout Lake
Posted May 26, 2019 2:00 am.
Last Updated May 27, 2019 8:39 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
HIGH LEVEL, Alta. — Crews battling an enormous wildfire just outside the small northern Alberta town of High Level are bracing for what could be a dangerous wind shift today.
The Chuckegg Creek fire is raging out of control about three kilometres southwest of the town, and has grown to just over 1,000 square kilometres.
More than 360 firefighters, including many who have come from outside Alberta, are on the fire lines and also in High Level working to protect property and infrastructure. They are supported by at least 28 helicopters as well as various types of heavy equipment.
The winds have been blowing the fire away from High Level, but a wind shift is pushing the flames back towards the town. High temperatures and a lack of any rain in the forecast are also likely to increase the fire threat.
Officials have said the approximately 5,000 people who have been evacuated from the area should not expect to return until at least next week and that provincial emergency funds for their gas, food and other expenses should be available by Monday.
Meanwhile, another northern Alberta community is facing a looming wildfire threat.
An emergency alert has been issued for Trout Lake because of a blaze 14 kilometres southeast of the community that has covered more than 300 hectares.
Residents of Trout Lake have been told they may need to leave on short notice.
Applications for evacuation payments are open and Albertans who qualify will receive $1200 for each adult and $500 for each child.
A voluntary evacuation is in place for Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and areas north of High Level.
The shift in wind has also caused three air quality statements to be issued in northern Alberta communities.
The Canadian Press
