Evacuation orders in Yellowhead County to lift Tuesday, allowing residents to return as wildfire threats subside across Alberta.
Residents Set to Return Home After Wildfire Threat
Thousands of Albertans forced from their homes in Yellowhead County will be allowed to return starting noon Tuesday, as wildfire evacuation orders are set to lift following a tense week of fast-moving fires. The decision, announced by Yellowhead County Mayor Wade Williams, comes after two major wildfires threatened three communities, displacing around 500 residents and prompting swift emergency action.
Fires Spark Rapid Evacuations Across Communities
Last Friday, evacuation orders were issued for the communities of Mercoal and Robb, located approximately 280 kilometres west of Edmonton, as flames advanced to within six kilometres of Mercoal and 16 kilometres of Robb. Earlier, the hamlet of Peers, about 180 kilometres west of Edmonton, was evacuated when a separate blaze, driven by strong winds, grew rapidly and approached the community’s southern edge.
Emergency Response Prevents Further Disaster
Firefighters, supported by helicopters, CN Rail’s Neptune firefighting train, and pre-installed sprinkler systems, managed to halt the fire’s advance at the CN rail tracks bordering Peers. Mayor Williams credited the coordinated emergency response and equipment readiness for preventing devastation, noting that the situation was especially dire late Friday when flames threatened to overrun the community.
Weather Brings Relief After Record Heat and Winds
The wildfires, fueled by last week’s record-breaking temperatures and severe winds, were exacerbated by dry forests left vulnerable by mountain pine beetle infestations. However, cooler temperatures and rainfall over the weekend helped reduce the immediate threat, allowing officials to begin lifting evacuation orders and plan for residents’ safe return.
Ongoing Wildfire Crisis Across Alberta
While Yellowhead County prepares for recovery, Alberta continues to battle over 50 active wildfires, with more than half still classified as out of control. An estimated 4,500 residents remain displaced across a dozen communities. In Chipewyan Lake, officials confirmed that 27 structures, including essential infrastructure, were destroyed as a massive wildfire swept through the remote northern community.
Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the response, Mayor Williams emphasized the county’s improved preparedness following the devastating 2023 wildfire season, which saw 13 fires and significant losses. “We learned an awful lot from 2023. Things went much, much smoother this time,” he said, expressing gratitude to firefighters and relief that residents can soon return home. Municipal officials continue to assess damage and coordinate recovery efforts, as Alberta faces an ongoing wildfire challenge.
For continuous coverage and real-time updates, keep following Maple News Wire.
