Evacuation Alert Lifted for Conklin as Crews Make Progress on Caribou Lake Wildfire
CONKLIN, AB. — Residents of Conklin are no longer under an evacuation alert as crews continue to make progress on containing a massive wildfire burning near the hamlet.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) lifted the evacuation alert Monday, saying while the Caribou Lake Wildfire remains classified as out of control, it is no longer expected to threaten the hamlet. The Caribou Lake Fire has scorched nearly 67,000 hectares but has seen no significant growth in the past 24 hours.
“Alberta Wildfire has made significant progress on containing it and has adequate resources, including crews, earth-moving equipment, helicopters and air tankers,” the Municipality said in a statement Monday. “Any further growth of this fire is not anticipated to move towards the community of Conklin.”
The human-caused fire prompted the initial evacuation alert due to its rapid spread towards Conklin. Crews will now begin dismantling the structural protection sprinkler systems that were installed as a precaution throughout the community.
While the alert has been lifted, the RMWB is urging residents to remain vigilant. “Although the evacuation alert has been lifted, all residents should continue to keep informed and be prepared during wildfire season,” the release stated.
A region-wide fire ban remains in effect due to the elevated fire risk. The ban covers the forest protection areas managed by the province, as well as the urban areas under the jurisdiction of the RMWB. The ban includes all outdoor fires, backyard fire pits, fireworks, and charcoal barbecues. However, propane and natural gas appliances are still permitted.
The wildfire danger remains extreme in the southern sections of the RMWB and very high in areas near Fort McMurray and extending northward to the Northwest Territories.
Smoke is expected to continue to drift in and out of Fort McMurray and surrounding areas. The low air quality can pose a health risk, and residents are encouraged to stay indoors when smoke levels rise. The RMWB encourages people to monitor air quality through trusted sources like firesmoke.ca and the Government of Canada’s Air Quality Health Index.
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