Whitecourt Wildfire Update - May 20, 2023
Posted on:No wildfire advisories have been issued for the Town of Whitecourt.
The Government of Alberta posts daily updates on wildfires across the province. To read updates for the Whitecourt area, visit https://srd.web.alberta.ca/whitecourt-area-update.
Smoke from wildfires continues to settle over the community, and a special air quality statement remains in effect. Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health, even at low concentrations. For more information on how you can protect your health, visit www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/air.aspx.
A portion of Highway 43 remains 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 in your area, check 511 Alberta.
With Festival Park water features opening for the summer season today, residents and visitors are reminded that fire ban restrictions apply within the Park space.
- The Fire Ban affects ALL BURNING, including cooking/warming fires (backyard fire pits and campground fire pits), and all open burning.
- The Fire Ban also includes, charcoal briquettes (including meat smokers), turkey fryers, fireworks and tiki torches.
- Propane or Natural Gas BBQs, fire pits and meat smokers are allowed. Ensure that your propane or natural gas appliance is shut down after use.
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.
Online Resources
Wildfire Status - https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-status.aspx
Emergency Alerts & Evacuation Orders - https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-emergency-alert.aspx
Travel Information - https://511.alberta.ca/#:Alerts