Whitecourt Wildfire Update - May 18, 2023
Posted on:No wildfire advisories have been issued for the Town of Whitecourt.
A special air quality statement remains in effect for Whitecourt as winds have blown smoke from wildfires into the community. Those with health conditions, children, seniors, pregnant women and those who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by the wildfire smoke.
Due to the extreme fire risk, no burning is permitted throughout Whitecourt and the region. Learn more about the fire ban at www.whitecourt.ca/live/public-safety/emergency-management.
A portion of Highway 43 has been closed north of Whitecourt, and travel between Whitecourt and Valleyview is not recommended. North and south bound lanes are closed on Highway 43 from Fox Creek to Little Smoky. For the most up to date highway conditions, check 511 Alberta.
Be Prepared
There are no alerts issued for Whitecourt at this time; however, community members should be prepared for an emergency. Make an emergency plan with your family; have an emergency kit ready in your home and car. For tips and checklists, visit www.alberta.ca/emergency-preparedness.aspx.
Evacuation Reception Centre
The Evacuation Reception Centre located at the Allan & Jean Millar Centre will continue to accept evacuees and provide support to those evacuated from the MD of Greenview. The Town of Valleyview downgraded the mandatory evacuation order for Valleyview to an Evacuation Alert; Valleyview residents were able to go home at noon today.
Fox Creek remains under an Evacuation Order. The Town of Fox Creek is operating an Evacuation Reception Centre in Whitecourt at the St. Joseph Parish Hall to provide supports and information to its residents.