FORT McMURRAY — After another summer of destructive wildfires across Western Canada, Fort McMurray and much of Alberta are enjoying a welcome reprieve.
There are currently no active wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area, while only three fires are burning across Alberta, all of which are considered under control.
Alberta Wildfire says the wildfire danger remains moderate across the Fort McMurray Forest Area. And, while wildfires can still start and spread under cooler conditions, officials say they are less likely to become severe if detected quickly and are urging people to remain cautious with outdoor fires.
There have been 45 wildfires in the Fort McMurray Forest Area since Jan. 1, but for now, all have been extinguished.
That relative calm stands in sharp contrast to neighbouring British Columbia, where upwards of 120 wildfires are currently burning. Several are significant, with some continuing to threaten communities.
More wildfire evacuees were allowed to return home to Summerland Monday, more than a week after the Bald Range wildfire forced residents from their homes.
Three evacuation orders near Okanagan Lake have been downgraded to alerts as crews gain ground on the portion of the fire closest to communities.
The Bald Range wildfire is mapped at more than 21,000 hectares and has more than 500 personnel assigned to it, along with 16 helicopters and nearly 60 pieces of heavy equipment.
Crews are now shifting their efforts west and northwest into more heavily forested areas.
Smoke and drought conditions continue to complicate firefighting efforts, including limiting the ability of aircraft to operate.
Elsewhere in B.C., the Saskum Lake wildfire north of Adams Lake has grown to an estimated 484 hectares.
The fire is located about 20 kilometres south of Vavenby and continues to burn in steep and inaccessible terrain along its northern flank.
The BC Wildfire Service says activity remains relatively low across much of the fire, with portions burning as a smouldering ground fire.
Twenty-two personnel are assigned to the Saskum Lake fire, along with heavy equipment and helicopter support. The fire was discovered July 28 and is believed to have been caused by lightning.
Wildfire season in Alberta begins March 1 and runs until Oct. 31.
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