Whitecourt Wildfire Update - May 19, 2023

No wildfire advisories have been issued for the Town of Whitecourt.

Put safety first this long weekend
With the upcoming long weekend, community members and visitors are asked to put safety first.

Please drive safely and watch for extra vehicle and pedestrian traffic throughout Whitecourt.
There are approximately 1,850 people staying in Whitecourt who have been evacuated from neighbouring communities due to wildfires.
Canadian Armed Forces and provincial incident management teams are currently based out of Whitecourt as they assist with fighting the Eagle Complex Fire located near Fox Creek.
Smoke continues to blow into the community from nearby wildfires, impacting visibility on area roads and highways.

A portion of Highway 43 is 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. RCMP recommend drivers avoid travel in this area. For the most up to date highway conditions in your area, check 511 Alberta.

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.

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 from the MD of Greenview.

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.