A wildfire burning in Barrhead County, northwest of Edmonton, triggered an evacuation order for some parts of the municipality on Thursday afternoon.
Shortly before 5 p.m., an Alberta Emergency Alert said the county had issued a state of local emergency because of the fire.
“There are structural fires in the Summerlea subdivision near Thunder Lake, approximately 20 kilometres west of Barrhead,” county officials said, adding the alert is in effect for the Summerlea subdivision.
“Residents in the Summerlea subdivision must evacuate immediately.”
At 5:42 p.m., the evacuation order was expanded to include the Thunder Lake subdivision.
“There are structural fires in the Thunder Lake subdivision, south of the provincial park boat launch,” county officials said in an updated alert.
What to know if you need to flee your home because of wildfire
Those forced to flee their homes were being asked to take Highway 18 and head to the county’s office in the town of Barrhead at 5306 49th St.
Wildfire evacuees were asked to register once they arrive.
“All residents should avoid travelling near this area,” county officials said.
Thunder Lake is located about 150 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.
More to come.
