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Wildfire crews battle out-of-control blazes as extreme fire danger continues in Fort McMurray Forest Area
FORT McMURRAY, Alta. — The wildfire danger remains extreme in the Fort McMurray Forest Area as hot, dry and windy weather continues to fuel aggressive fire behaviour. Alberta Wildfire reports there are currently 10 wildfires burning in the region. Two fires are under control, two are being held, and six are out of control.
The most active fires are part of the Richardson Complex, a group of wildfires burning north and south of the Chipewyan Lake 201F First Nation. Four fires in that complex — MWF015, MWF019, MWF020 and MWF021 — are all burning out of control and have consumed a combined total of 3.2 hectares of forest. A fifth fire, MWF016, is also out of control and has grown to approximately 1,400 hectares. Alberta Wildfire says the fire is exhibiting extreme behaviour and continues to be closely monitored by crews on the ground and in the air. Multiple helicopters, airtankers and ground crews are being used in the firefighting efforts.
A red-flag warning has been put in place for the Fort McMurray Forest Area. The alert warns firefighters that extreme fire behaviour is likely, due to the ongoing heat and dry conditions. Across Alberta, more than 40 wildfires are now active, prompting the province to deploy additional resources to support suppression efforts.
Since January 1, there have been 24 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area. These fires have burned a combined total of 1,407 hectares.
To reduce the risk of new wildfires, a fire restriction is in place for areas south of Lake Athabasca within the Fort McMurray Forest Area. Under the restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas. Fireworks and exploding targets are also prohibited. Safe wood campfires are still allowed on private land and in provincial campgrounds where fire rings are provided. Backyard firepits, propane fire pits, gas appliances, charcoal briquettes and indoor wood fires remain permitted.
The fire restriction will remain in place until conditions improve.
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