| May 26 |
|
May 26, 2023
12:00 p.m.
Thanks to the hard work of our fire crews and improved wildfire conditions, the Range Road 70 fire is now classified as Being Held. This is an improvement from the previous status of Out-of-Control and means that enough action has been taken that the fire is not likely to spread beyond the perimeter under current conditions. Our crews will continue to work on the stubborn spots while monitoring for flare ups.
The State of Local Emergency that was declared by Mayor Gamble on April 29, 2023 has been lifted, the Hazard level is moving from Fire Ban to Fire Restriction and the recreational OHV/ATV ban is also being lifted.
A Fire Restriction means that safe fires in approved fire pits with a screen are allowed and do not require a permit. However, if they do not have a screen you'll need to apply for a fire permit. Gas or propane stoves/barbeques and portable propane fire pits are allowed.
No open fires or major burn operations are allowed during this time.
Stay up to date on the current fire risk status by subscribing to updates on www.parklandcounty.com/firehazard
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| May 22 |
|
May 22, 2023
5:00 p.m.
Fire Crews are gaining ground on the multiple hot spots in the area and holding the perimeter. With help from the precipitation that has fallen and the remaining that is forecast along with cooler temperatures, Crews can turn their attention from the perimeter to dealing with the hotspots that remain in the interior. We’re grateful over the course of this operation to have had many partners come to assist and this week, our neighbours from Enoch – Maskêkosak Fire Services will be onsite to assist. We’re hoping to soon reduce the amount of non-essential staff on the project while a dedicated crew remains to extinguish this blaze.
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| May 21 |
|
May 21, 2023
7:15 p.m
Fire Crews are gaining ground on the multiple hot spots in the area and holding the perimeter. With help from the precipitation that is forecasted and cooler temperatures next week, we are hopeful to reduce the amount of non-essential staff on the project so they can resume their normal duties while a dedicated crew remains to finish this battle.
12:15 p.m.
The Victoria Day long weekend kicked off with poor air quality and an extreme fire risk but low winds and a small amount of rain allowed our Fire Crews to continue actioning hotspots and confirming that previously extinguished ones remained out.
We’re seeing continuous improvement along the fire guards and the focus today for crews is to fortify the perimeter and deal with any at-risk hotspots to ensure the perimeter remains stable.
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| May 19 |
|
May 19, 2023
3:30 p.m.
As we approach the May long weekend with more hot weather in the forecast, our crews remain on the ground putting out hotspots and combating an active wildfire. If you are in the Entwistle area, please be extremely cautious as burned trees may be unstable and present a hazard.
A full fire ban is still in place. Please refrain from any burning, fireworks, or ATV/UTV use, and remember - it is illegal and dangerous to fly a drone near a wildfire, as it affects our ability to properly fight the fire and endangers our firefighters.
Looking for a way to cool off from the heat this weekend? The Wabamun Spray Park is opening in time for the long weekend. Hours of operation this weekend will be 12-4PM on Saturday and Sunday, 2-4PM on Monday.
Find updates on Alberta Wildfires: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-wildfire.aspx
View air quality index: https://www.alberta.ca/about-the-air-quality-health-index.aspx
View smoke forecasts: https://firesmoke.ca/
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| May 18 |
|
May 18, 2023
2:15 p.m.
Important long weekend reminders:
- Our fire crews are still working on managing hot spots and maintaining the fire perimeter. This will remain the priority over the warm weekend ahead.
- It is still important to be on alert and be prepared should conditions worsen.
- A full fire ban is in place and we ask residents to please adhere to this and avoid any burning, fireworks, or recreational ATV/UTV use.
For those visiting Pembina Provincial Park:
- Wildfires in the area are causing poor air quality. Please pay attention to air quality statements issued for Entwistle.
- There is no public access to the Pembina River through Pembina River Tubing Company, as they are closed due to fire damage.
- There are no other river access points in the hamlet of Entwistle.
Find updates on Alberta Wildfires: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-wildfire.aspx
View air quality index: https://www.alberta.ca/about-the-air-quality-health-index.aspx
View smoke forecasts: https://firesmoke.ca/
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| May 17 |
|
May 17, 2023
6:00 p.m.
Heavy smoke was present in the area of the fire this morning which worked in the favour of our crews as it kept temperatures lower. The crews continued to action hotspots within the fire perimeter. Several hotspots remain and the fire perimeter continues to be maintained.
Overnight the smoke settles so please use caution when driving in the area early in the morning as visibility may be poor. Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health, even at low concentrations. MyHealthAlberta has information about wildfire and your health at https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Alberta/Pages/wildfire-smoke-health.aspx
1:30 p.m.
Please see the following update from the Drax Pellet Plant aa they prepare to bring the facility back online:
Drax Entwistle Plant – Community Announcement
The Drax Pellet Plant is currently performing maintenance and assessing options for a safe restart to operations. During the last couple of weeks, the team at the pellet plant has been working to monitor the plant and ensure the safety of their team and the surrounding community.
In the coming days, the pellet plant will be commencing activity to prepare for a safe restart to operations. Residents will begin to see more activity from the site to support restart actions.
We are currently following a planned and controlled restart of the facility; through that process, there will be critical milestones and safety checks that must be achieved before progressing to full operational status. You may see additional people on-site, fibre deliveries beginning to recommence, equipment starting to rotate and visual emissions will be visible from the furnace abort stack while the furnace is re-lit and comes back online safely.
Our site team has ensured all safety systems are functioning and the team will continue to complete site monitoring as has been done throughout the last couple of weeks.
We remain in communication with all agencies and emergency responders regarding the status of the wildfires. If there is any concern or danger from the wildfires, the facility will again be taken offline as required.
Thank you for your understanding and continued support as we work through this difficult time together as a community. We value being your neighbour and a member of the Entwistle community.
Jason Hellervik
Plant Manager Entwistle
If you have any questions, please reach out to Drax Entwistle Plant at:
sandy.sung@drax.com
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| May 16 |
|
May 16, 2023
4:30 p.m.
Our fire crews continue to action hot spots throughout the fire area, maintain the fire perimeter and prevent any spread.
Smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility in many areas, and a special air quality statement is in effect. Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health, even at low concentrations. Take action to protect your health and reduce your exposure to smoke. People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. You can find updates on the Government of Canada’s Air Quality Health Index for Parkland County here: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/abaq-013_e.html.
There will be a water shutdown impacting sections of Entwistle at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday morning that will last for a few hours as crews repair a waterline main. View this map for the specific area that will experience interrupted service.
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| May 15 |
|
May 15, 2023
9:00 p.m.
Our Fire Crews have now been battling the blaze for more than two weeks. The most visible areas of the fire have been extinguished but hot spots within forested areas will continue to flare up over the coming days due to ongoing hot, dry conditions. Many of these areas are contained within fire perimeters and are monitored and prioritized for extinguishment during daytime hours. We’re using GPS to locate each hot spot and extinguish it!
Why aren’t you fighting the fire at night?
Fighting wildfire in the trees overnight is very challenging. There are many safety risks which are increased when visibility is limited. Burned out trees can fall over and ash pits (deep holes that can be hot and still smouldering) are two of the main concerns. We also have a limited crew that is fighting fire in the hot sun during the day - they need rest to be most effective. We continue to monitor the wildfire at night and attack during the day.
Our crew is committed to protecting the community – both residents and their homes. Hot spots are smouldering areas that have heat and smoke. If you notice a hot spot, please don’t try to manage it yourself. Instead, call Fire Services at 780-968-8338 to report it. If there is an active fire within 30 m (100 ft) to your home, call 911, and let them know you are in the fire zone. A fire crew will be sent to your location.
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| May 14 |
|
May 14, 2023
4:30 p.m.
Range Road 70 - Crews continue working to manage hot spots, maintain the fire perimeter and prevent any spread. Our fire team is actioning deep areas of dried peat moss that are extremely hot and difficult to extinguish.
Range Road 270 (Leduc County fire) - This fire is contained and not currently a threat to Parkland County.
Residents are reminded to please remain on alert as hot, dry conditions continue.
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| May 13 |
|
May 13, 2023
1:45 p.m.
Our fire crews will be working hard in this heat to minimize hot spots and tighten the fire perimeter.
Current conditions of hot temperatures, wind gusts and low relative humidity are likely to cause elevated wildfire danger and increased wildfire behaviour. Residents in the Entwistle area should remain on alert and be ready for possible evacuation, as your safety remains our top priority.
Evacuees can apply for Alberta’s emergency evacuation payment online, over the phone at 310-4455, or in person at Parkland Alberta Supports Centre (210, 7 Tri Leisure Way, Spruce Grove).
Alberta Supports employees will be in the community in the following locations:
- Monday, May 15 at 9:00 a.m. - Entwistle Community Recreation Centre
- Tuesday, May 16 - Evansburg Legion
- Wednesday, May 17- Wildwood FCSS office
Find wildfire resources at https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/Page14070.aspx
|
| May 12 |
|
Our firefighters continue to work tirelessly to fight the Range Road 70 Fire, however our crews are stretched thin and we continue to ask the Province for additional resources to defeat this wildfire and protect our communities. As we approach the weekend, forecasts predict increasing temperatures, high winds and low relative humidity, conditions which are likely to cause elevated wildfire danger and increased wildfire behaviour. We would like to remind residents in the Entwistle area to remain on alert and be ready for possible evacuation if conditions warrant, as your safety remains our primary concern. The State of Local Emergency remains in effect, as does the Provincial State of Emergency.
You can stay prepared by:
• Having a bag ready to go (full of essential items like important documents, medication, food and water)
• Watch/listen for Alberta Emergency Alerts
• Ensure your vehicle has fuel
Hot spots are smouldering areas with heat and smoke but no flame. If you have concerns about a hot spot in the area, please call Fire Services at 780-968-8338. If you or your property are threatened, immediately call 9-1-1.
We understand that this can be a difficult time for everyone. Mental health supports are available for our residents. Please call 2-1-1 or contact Parkland County’s FCSS at 780-968-8342 to access counselling supports. The Entwistle Community Recreation Centre is open today until 4:30 p.m. with support and information available.
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| May 11 |
May 11, 2023
8:15 p.m.
Today our fire crews focused on actioning the fire and extinguishing hot spots along the fire guard. Helicopters were used to drop water on areas that are burning inside the fire guard, which assisted crews with areas on the ground that are unsafe for them to work. This remains an active wildfire and our fire team is still working tirelessly to fight this fire.
Hot spots are smouldering areas with heat and smoke but no flame. If you have concerns about a hot spot in the area, please call Fire Services at 780-968-8338. If you or your property are threatened, immediately call 9-1-1.
The Wabamun Office is now closed as reception centre. Entwistle Community Recreation Centre will be open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. tomorrow with support and information available.
For information on wildfires in Alberta, visit https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-wildfire.aspx.
10:30 a.m.
As temperatures rise over the next few days, we encourage our residents to remain on alert and always be ready for a possible evacuation.
Although our fire crews are doing everything they can to fight the blaze, weather conditions always play a major role and can cause changes. You can stay prepared by:
• Having a bag ready to go (full of essential items like important documents, medication, food and water)
• Watch/listen for Alberta Emergency Alerts
• Ensure your vehicle has fuel
We understand that this can be a difficult time for everyone. Mental health supports are available for our residents. Please call 2-1-1 or contact Parkland County’s FCSS at 780-968-8342 to access counselling supports.
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| May 10 |
|
May 10, 2023
3:45 p.m.
Our fire crews continue working hard to secure the perimeter of the fire with anticipated hot, dry weather coming this weekend. The wildfire has been reassessed at approximately 7,254 Hectares in size, with the portion in Parkland County (east of Pembina River) being around 2,000 Hectares.
Residents who are just returning home are advised to run the hot and cold on their taps for a few minutes before using water. If you experience any water quality concerns please notify your local water utility and AHS as soon as possible. AHS can be contacted at 1-833-476-4733 or through AHS website. After hours call 8-1-1.
Other information on re-entry can be found further down this page.
Entwistle Community Recreation Centre is open with coffee and snacks from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for residents looking for support and information. Evacuees can apply for the Government of Alberta’s financial support by visiting https://www.alberta.ca/emergency.aspx#financialsupports. TriCALA will be available at the Entwistle Centre for residents who need assistance applying. The library will be back to normal operating hours beginning Thursday and can also assist residents.
The Wabamun Office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. as a reception centre.
WEE Food Bank is open 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. for those in need (780-727-4043).
Residents are advised to be ready for any emergency alerts throughout the next few days with warmer temperatures.
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| May 9 |
|
May 9, 2023
9:15 p.m.
Photo Gallery: RR70 Wildfire 2 will appear here on the public site.
Parkland County Fire Crews continue to secure the fire perimeter, watching for hot spots and digging through piles of debris for fire. Please do not drive over any inflated hose lines or interfere with any equipment that is set up.
Our Fire Crews are using a variety of aerial methods to extinguish this fire including helicopters to scan for hot spots and large aircraft to bucket water to extinguish the spots. We’d ask that residents please not use drones in the area of the wildfire including to photograph your home as this can hinder our ability to operate aircraft and effectively battle the fire.
While the recent rain has offered a bit of relief, Parkland County is facing another stretch of hot and dry weather. We’re asking all residents to please follow the Fire and Recreational ATV Ban that is in place to avoid a major fire in another area of the county. No burning is allowed as the conditions are still ideal for fires to quickly spread out of control. If you have concerns about a hot spot, please call Fire Services at 780-968-8338. If you or your property are threatened, immediately call 9-1-1.
We appreciate the support we’ve received in combating this blaze, and we look forward to further provincial support with more resources to relieve our hard-working crews so that we can finish this fight.
3:45 p.m.
Albertans evacuated due to wildfire can join a nightly telephone town hall hosted by the Government of Alberta for updates to the wildfire situation and answers to their questions.
May 9-14 starting at 7:30 pm
Join by phone: 1-833-380-0691
Albertans who need immediate assistance can call 310-4455 for wildfire-related information.
3:00 p.m.
We’re pleased to have clarification from the Provincial Government that Parkland County residents are eligible to apply for Emergency Evacuation Payments.
Parkland County reached out to our provincial counterparts to advocate on behalf of our residents and are pleased to announce that the eligibility for emergency payments has been modified to include those who’ve had to evacuate for seven days or more, regardless if they returned home during that time.
“We’re comforted to know that Parkland County residents won’t be left behind in what is already a financially and emotionally taxing time,” said Parkland County Mayor Allan Gamble. “My hope is that the funds that are now available to our residents will help to ease a bit of stress as they get settled back at home and the clean-up begins.”
The Emergency Evacuation Payment information has been updated on the Provincial Government website, www.alberta.ca/emergency and includes instructions for applying both online and over the phone. For applications over the phone, please call 310-4455, anytime day or night for assistance.
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| May 8 |
|
May 8, 2023
8:00 p.m.
As Parkland County residents return to their homes, we’re asking people to remain vigilant about hot spots that might exist around your property. Hot spots are smouldering areas that have heat and smoke but no flame.
Parkland County has arranged water haulers to support residents who wish to action hot spots on their own property. If you would like non-potable water delivered to fill your portable tank, please call 780-727-3947 from 8:30 am - 4:30 pm.
If you have concerns about a hot spot, please call Fire Services at 780-968-8338. If you or your property are threatened, immediately call 9-1-1.
We are thankful for rain, however, it’s important to note that a fire ban is still in effect and no burning is permitted.
Visit https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx or or call 310-4455 for wildfire information.
5:30 p.m.
This booklet covers information on what to expect, things you might see, utilities, insurance, and more.
While it is still an active wildfire, our crews have now secured the blaze on the east side of the Pembina River. The mandatory evacuation order is now lifted for Entwistle and all evacuated Parkland County residents. Highway 16 and Highway 22 will be open to Entwistle for Parkland County residents returning to their homes. Residents who require assistance to return may contact 780-203-3258.
Our thoughts are with residents who have lost property in the fire. There were a number of structures lost in the fire, including 3 houses as well as structures associated with popular local business Pembina River Tubing. The Entwistle Community Recreation Centre will be open today until 7:00 p.m. for residents with questions or concerns. Evacuees can also call 780-203-3258.
Please be aware that fire crews are still actively fighting the fire. Please do not drive over any inflated hose lines or interfere with any equipment that is set up. Helicopters are still active in the area, please do not use any size drone for any purpose, including photographing your homes, as this may inhibit the fire suppression activities. This is still an active fire, and the Provincial State of Emergency remains in place. While weather conditions have improved, please be on alert for any weather changes, as the situation could change quickly and residents may be asked to evacuate again for their safety. We appreciate your ongoing patience.
Officials are still in the process of testing water and confirming utilities. There is currently no natural gas in Entwistle. If you wish to remain evacuated while utilities are confirmed, please call 780-203-3258 to confirm you are staying evacuated.
Parkland School Division has confirmed that the Entwistle School will remain closed tomorrow. Please visit https://entwistle.psd.ca/ for further education updates.
Residents with breathing/health concerns may want to remain evacuated due to air quality. You can find the air quality map here: https://www.alberta.ca/about-the-air-quality-health-index....
Water testing is still in progress. Please monitor the Alberta Health Services website for any water advisories: https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/Page1926.aspx
11:45 a.m.
The mandatory evacuation order is being lifted at 5:00 PM today for Entwistle and all evacuated Parkland County residents. Highway 16 and Highway 22 will be open to Entwistle for Parkland County residents returning to their homes at 5:00 PM, when it will be safe for our residents to return to their homes. Residents who require assistance to return may contact 780-203-3258.
Please be aware that fire crews are still actively fighting the fire. Please do not drive over any inflated hose lines or interfere with any equipment that is set up. This is still an active fire, and the Provincial State of Emergency remains in place. While weather conditions have improved, please be on alert for any weather changes, as the situation could change quickly and residents may be asked to evacuate again for their safety. We appreciate your ongoing patience.
Areas in Yellowhead County (including Evansburg, Hansonville, Lobstick Resort, and Wildwood) are in the current evacuation zone and are still being evaluated. Yellowhead County will have an update later today. Go to the Yellowhead County website at www.yhcounty.ca for more information and future updates.
We are still in the process of testing water and confirming utilities. There is currently no gas in Entwistle. If you wish to remain evacuated while utilities are confirmed, please call 780-203-3258 to register.
Updates with further information will follow later this afternoon.
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| May 7 |
|
May 7, 2023
8:15 p.m.
All wildfire evacuees are invited to join us for Hot Dog & a Movie (Lyle Lyle Crocodile)
Monday May 08, 5:30pm
Wabamun Reception Centre
Jubilee Hall - 5132 53 Ave, Wabamun
4:00 p.m.
We’d like to give a shout-out to the 27 amazing students from Lakeland College’s Emergency Training Centre who have been helping on the front lines. We appreciate their willingness to step up in this time of need.
Photo Gallery: RR 70 - Lakeland College will appear here on the public site.
Today brought cooler temperatures and some rain, however, the fire remains a challenge and our crews continue their work to get it under control. As of today, homes in Entwistle remain undamaged by fire.
In total, the fire size is around 8,500 Hectares in size, with the portion in Parkland County (east of Pembina River) being around 2,000 Hectares.
The evacuation order will remain in place until it is safe for our residents to return home. We understand that this is challenging for evacuees. Those in need of support can call 780-203-3258 with any concerns regarding lodging, food or transportation.
Please visit https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx or call 310-4455 for wildfire information.
Parkland School Division has arranged transportation for evacuated students to get to school. Please visit https://entwistle.psd.ca/home/news/post/entwistle-fires-may-7th-update to learn more.
Unless there is any significant change, our next update will be provided tomorrow afternoon.
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| May 6 |
|
May 6, 2023
9:30 p.m.
After a long week, our fire crews remain dedicated to their operation to battle the fire and protect structures within the evacuation zone. Parkland County will be conducting an assessment of fire affected structures and will have more information regarding any damage or losses in the coming days.
Throughout this challenging time, we are amazed by the outpouring of support from our community and neighbours. We are grateful for those who came together - whether it be on the front lines, behind the scenes, in the community, or in many other ways to help. We appreciate the incredible support offered and received.
A State of Emergency has been declared by the Provincial government. This is a legal tool that provides the provincial government with extended capabilities allowing for around the clock monitoring of the situation, access to emergency funding, and the ability to mobilize additional support.
The evacuation order will remain in effect until our fire team deems the area safe to return home.
Parkland County residents that are evacuated are still asked to register at Jubilee Hall or by phone. We understand that this is a stressful time for our evacuated community members; we are here to help if you are struggling. Please contact the reception centre with any concerns regarding lodging, food, transportation or any other urgent needs by one of the following methods:
In-Person – Jubilee Hall reopens Sunday, May 6 at 7:30 a.m.
Phone (24hrs): 780-203-3258
Online: EmergencyRegistration.alberta.ca.
For more information on the Provincial State of Emergency, visit www.alberta.ca/emergency or call 310-4455.
For the latest updates, visit www.parklandcounty.com/RR70
2:00 p.m.
High winds and dry conditions have created an extremely volatile fire situation. Our fire crews continue to work tirelessly to bring the blaze under control. Parkland County continues to focus on the protection of Entwistle. For current fire maps please visit: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-wildfire.aspx. You can also call 310-4455 for wildfire related information.
The Evacuation Area remains in effect for everyone west of Range Road 65, north of Township Road 530 to Township Road 534, including all residents of Entwistle. Please continue to stay safe and remain evacuated.
Residents can register by visiting Wabamun Jubilee Hall (5132 53 Ave, Wabamun) or by calling 780-203-3258. Coal Diamond Sports Park in Wabamun is also open for evacuees staying in trailers, RVs, etc.
We continue to be appreciative of all the resources that our partner organizations, other municipalities and residents have been contributing to our efforts to combat the blaze.
Highways are closed in the area and others are congested due to other evacuating areas. Visit https://511.alberta.ca to plan your route.
A State of Local Emergency has been extended.
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| May 5 |
|
May 5, 2023
10:15 P.M.
This alert is confirmed in effect for everyone west of Range Road 65 near Entwistle, north of Township Road 530 to south of Township Road 534, including all residents of Entwistle.
A mandatory evacuation order is still in place, and we emphasize the importance for residents to please remain evacuated as this wildfire presents many dangers in the area.
Residents can register by visiting Wabamun Jubilee Hall (5132 53 Ave, Wabamun) or by calling 780-203-3258. Coal Diamond Sports Park in Wabamun is also open for evacuees staying in trailers, RVs, etc.
Highways are closed in the area and others are congested due to other evacuating areas. Visit https://511.alberta.ca to plan your route.
Find more information on Alberta Wildfires: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
A State of Local Emergency remains in place, visit www.parklandcounty.com/RR70 for updates.
7:00 p.m.
The fire has jumped the Pembina River and is currently south of Entwistle. The fire remains a concern and our fire crews continue to work tirelessly to bring the blaze under control.
A mandatory evacuation order is still in place, and we emphasize the importance for residents to please remain evacuated as this wildfire presents many dangers in the area. A State of Local Emergency is also still in place.
Residents can register by visiting Wabamun Jubilee Hall (5132 53 Ave, Wabamun) or by calling 780-203-3258. Coal Diamond Sports Park in Wabamun is also open for evacuees staying in trailers, RVs, etc.
Highways are closed in the area and others are congested due to other evacuating areas. Visit https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts to plan your route.
Find more information on Alberta Wildfires: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
1:00 p.m.
Our fire crews continue to work hard battling this fire through another hot and windy day. The fire has roughly doubled in size over the last day, see the map below.
A mandatory evacuation order is in place, and we emphasize the importance for residents to please remain evacuated as this wildfire presents many dangers in the area.
Residents can register by visiting Wabamun Jubilee Hall (5132 53 Ave, Wabamun) or by calling 780-203-3258. Coal Diamond Sports Park in Wabamun is also open for evacuees staying in trailers, RVs, etc.
Highways are closed in the area, visit https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts.
Find more information on Alberta Wildfires: https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
A State of Local Emergency remains in place.
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| May 4 |
|
May 4, 2023
7:20 P.M.
Evacuation Order
As per the Alberta Emergency Management Act RSA 2000 Chapter E6.8 Current as of November 19, 2018. Section 19 (1) subsection (g) Parkland County has issued a mandatory evacuation order within the following area: Between west of Range Road 65 to the Pembina River, north of Township Road 530 to Highway 16, including all residents of Entwistle, due to wildfire. If you are in this area you must leave immediately.
Bring identification, medication, blankets, sleeping bags, personal items, important documents, household pets and pet care items if possible.
All evacuees are required to register at a reception center, either in person or by phone at 780-203-3258.
Evacuees who require assistance can call or text the after hours ESS emergency line at 780-203-3258.
RECEPTION CENTRE:
Jubilee Hall located at 5132 53 Ave, in Wabamun.
You will be advised when the emergency has ended and it is safe to return to your home.
As per the Alberta Emergency Management Act RSA 2000 Chapter E6.8 Current as of November 19, 2018 Section 17 (b) states: any person who fails to comply with an evacuation order; is guilty of an offence and liable to imprisonment for a term of not more than one year or to a fine of not more than $10 000 or to both imprisonment and a fine.
6:15 P.M.
Our fire crews continue to battle the Range Road 70 Wildfire. A State of Local Emergency remains in effect and this is still an active fire.
To those in the immediate fire zone – the fire is continuing to be active with the shifts in wind direction making it difficult to predict if the fire may flare up. As the situation could change quickly, please stay aware of your surroundings and speak with crews in the area for updates. Fire Crews continue to use sprinklers on at-risk residences and are monitoring the situation closely.
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| May 3 |
|
May 3, 2023
1:30 P.M.
The wild fire is now being held, please view the statement from Parkland County Mayor Allan Gamble and Fire Chief Brian Cornforth.
Photo Gallery: RR70 Wildfire will appear here on the public site.
10:45 a.m.
The evacuation order is being lifted at 11:00 a.m. today for all remaining residents. It is now safe for everyone to return to their homes. Highway 16 and 22 are open.
We have re-entry booklets available for residents that provide helpful information on what to expect and what to do when getting home:
Click to view Entwistle Re-Entry Booklet
Click to view Rge Rd 65-west Re-Entry Booklet
Hot spots are smouldering areas that have heat and smoke. If you notice a hot spot, please don’t try to manage it yourself. Instead, call our Fire Services at 780-968-8338.
The Wildwood/Entwistle/Evansburg (WEE) Community Food Bank is monitoring their phone hourly to accommodate residents in need. Phone 780-727-4043.
Evacuees looking for more information can visit the Entwistle Community Recreation Centre or Wabamun Office today until 4:30 p.m.
Residents with breathing/health concerns may wish to remain evacuated due to air quality. Learn more here: https://www.alberta.ca/about-the-air-quality-health-index.aspx
Please note that a State of Local Emergency remains in effect and crews are still working in the area.
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| May 2 |
|
May 2, 2023
8:00 P.M.
Thanks to the hard work of our fire crews, today we were able to send the residents of Entwistle back to their homes. Efforts continue around the clock to get all remaining residents home safely.
The fire team has switched from a defensive to an offensive approach and are tackling hotspots. Fire Crews are also working to build a fire guard around the fire perimeter which creates a break in the fuel for the fire by stripping the ground down to dirt or clay. A second tactic in use is the installation of a wet line where sprinklers are positioned through the trees and can be tuned on and off based on the conditions to deter the fire from spreading further.
Our Fire Services team members have extensive training and specialized equipment to combat wildfires safely – we ask that you not try to extinguish hotspots yourself and instead call Fire Services at 780-968-8338. Residents are reminded to only call 911 in an emergency.
For those still evacuated – please know that we are doing our best to get you back home as soon as it is safe and we appreciate your patience. An update will be provided tomorrow afternoon and reception centres remain available to evacuees at the Entwistle Community Recreation Centre and Wabamun office beginning at 8:30 A.M.
1:45 P.M.
If you are an Entwistle resident returning home, please read our re-entry booklet. This booklet covers information on what to expect, things you might see, utilities, insurance, and more.
Click to view Re-Entry Booklet
Highway 16 and Highway 22 are open for residents returning to their homes.
The Entwistle Community Recreation Centre is open until 8:00 p.m. for residents with questions or concerns. Evacuees can also call 780-203-3258 for assistance.
The Wabamun Office is open until 5:00 p.m. for those still evacuated to register.
Reminder that a State of Local Emergency is still in effect and the wildfire remains active. The evacuation order is still in place for those west of Range Road 65 to Highway 22, north of Township Road 530 to Highway 16. More information for these residents will be shared as it becomes available. We appreciate your ongoing patience.
11:30 a.m.
The mandatory evacuation order is being lifted at 12:00 noon today for Entwistle, Evansburg, and Parkland County residents located west of Highway 22. These residents are now safe to return to their homes. Highway 16 will be open for Parkland County and Evansburg residents returning to their homes. Residents can also use Highway 22 to access properties on the west.
The evacuation order remains in place for those west of Range Road 65 to Highway 22, north of Township Road 530 to Highway 16 (see map below).
Residents with breathing/health concerns may want to remain evacuated due to air quality. You can find the air quality map here: https://www.alberta.ca/about-the-air-quality-health-index.aspx.
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May 1, 2023
6:30 p.m.
Our fire crews in Parkland County are continuing to work throughout the day and night to control this wildfire. Tonight, fire crews will focus on patrolling the fire perimeter, putting out hotspots, and checking on houses.
Throughout the day today, Parkland County fire crews worked to manage the wildfire by digging fire guards around the fire perimeter and deployed sprinkler systems to prevent spread, while air tankers and helicopters were used to drop retardant on the blaze. Site security is being maintained by RCMP and Peace Officers.
Below are images of some of the protective measures our teams are deploying in the fire area.
A State of Local Emergency remains in effect along with the mandatory evacuation notice. It is not yet safe for any residents to return to their homes in the evacuation area. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to protect our residents.
The map shows the two active wildfires near Entwistle, one in Parkland County and one in Yellowhead County.
Learn more at https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-wildfire.aspx
For information on air quality, visit https://www.alberta.ca/about-the-air-quality-health-index...
For updated road closures, visit https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts
Unless there is any significant change to the situation, our next update will be provided tomorrow morning.
1:00 P.M.
Registration Line: 780-203-3258
Wildwood is now being evacuated and the Wildwood Community Hall is no longer a reception centre for Parkland County residents. Instead, evacuated residents in need of a place to stay can travel to the Edson and District Leisure Centre,
1021 49 St, Edson, or the Wabamun Jubilee Hall, which remains open for residents to register.
Reception centres:
Edson and District Leisure Centre (Open 24 hours)
1021 49 St, Edson, AB T7E 1T7
Wabamun Jubilee Hall - (Open from 8:30 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.)
5132 53 Ave, Wabamun, AB T0E 2K0
The weather situation continues to be a concern.
For information on air quality, visit https://www.alberta.ca/air-quality.aspx
For updated road closures, visit https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts
To view information from Alberta Wildfire, visit their website at
https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-wildfire.aspx
11:00 A.M.
Fire crews continue to work to contain the wildfire which is over 330 Hectares in size. The current weather conditions are still a cause for concern.
The mandatory evacuation order remains in effect. If you haven’t yet registered, please call 780-203-3258. We also encourage you to check in with loved ones to ensure they know you’re safe. Thank you to all evacuees for your patience and understanding.
Unless there is a significant change, the next update will be later this afternoon.
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