Wildfire Update (RWF036) – May 16, 11:55 a.m.
Alberta Wildfire is responding to wildfire RWF036, which remains out of control and has grown to approximately 1,043 hectares. The fire is located about 5 km north of James-Wilson Provincial Recreation Area, 30 km west of Sundre, and 20 km southwest of Burnstick Lake, near Highway 40 and Highway 584.
The area is currently under evacuation alert with no mandatory evacuation order in place. The public has been cleared to allow firefighting operations, and Clearwater County has declared a State of Local Emergency to support resources. Residents should avoid the area until further notice.
Despite cooler temperatures and scattered snow/rain, the fire remains out of control due to its size and terrain. Crews, heavy equipment, and night-vision helicopters worked overnight, with more resources continuing today. Smoke may be visible nearby but poses no risk to communities. Aircrafts may be scooping water from local lakes and rivers, please stay clear and give responders space.
