Crews battle Fort McMurray’s 17th wildfire of the season
Posted May 10, 2021 8:27 am.
Last Updated May 10, 2021 10:03 am.
FORT MCMURRAY (660 NEWS) — Crews are on the scene of a blaze in the Fort McMurray Forest Area (FMFA).
Sunday night, Alberta Wildfire responded to a new fire close to Beacon Hill. The fire is currently classified as being held, meaning it is not expected to grow past the established boundaries of half a hectare.
A crew of four wildland firefighters, accompanied by two helicopters and local fire crews, is attempting to extinguish the fire.
This is currently the only active wildfire in the FMFA. Since wildfire season began on March 1, there have been nine wildfires burning a total area of 5.7 hectares.
Across the Forest Protection Area (FPA) of Alberta, there are 17 active wildfires, with 232 since the season began. So far, province-wide 888.55 hectares of land have been scorched by wildfires this year.
The Forest Area of Fort McMurray averages about 25 human-created wildfires annually. According to a press release from Alberta Wildfire, these wildfires have cost the government nearly $19 million per year over the last decade.
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A fire advisory is in effect for the FMFA. Under this advisory, existing fire permits are still valid, but no new permits will be issued. Any burning without a permit, except for campfires, is prohibited under this advisory. It will remain in effect until weather conditions improve.
If you see a wildfire you are asked to report it immediately, by contacting 310-FIRE.
More information on wildfire situations can be accessed on the Alberta Wildfire website.
