UPDATE #6: Hamelin Creek Wildfire (GWF028)

Wildfire GWF028, in the Blueberry Mountain area, is still classified as Out of Control at approximately 5,500 ha. This wildfire is now known as the Hamelin Creek Wildfire. However, there has been no growth today, due to the rain.

Saddle Hills County has updated the Evacuation Order in place due to this wildfire.

All those located between Township Road 794 and Highway 680 (Township Road 802), and Range Road 95 and Highway 725, remain on Evacuation Order, as well as in the Crown Land, north of Township Road 800 and south of the Blueberry Mountain Grazing Reserve. This includes Moonshine Lake Provincial Park.

All those in the surrounding area remain on Evacuation Alert and should be prepared to leave on short notice. Should you require assistance, please contact Saddle Hills County, at (780) 864-3760. There are no longer any homes immediately threatened by this wildfire, and all residents who were previously evacuated due to the fire may now return home, but should remain on alert. 

Alberta Wildfire continues to work on this fire with firefighting crews, heavy equipment, and aircraft, when smoke conditions allow for safe flight operations. Multiple Dozer groups also continue to work on fire guards around the perimeter of the fire and the dozer guard at Moonshine Lake Provincial Park continues to be maintained.

When the fire crossed the Silver Valley Road (Range Road 95), it damaged a Telus cable, resulting in a loss of landline service for approximately 79 customers. Telus is actively working on repairing this. Should you have any questions about your service, please contact Telus directly. ATCO Electric is also working to clear any burned dead trees that may fall on the power line along Range Road 95. 

The Silver Valley Road (Range Road 95) remains closed between Township Road 794 and Township Road 810.

There is currently no immediate threat to critical infrastructure and no reports of any residences damaged, to date.

A Fire Ban remains in effect for Saddle Hills County, the Forest Protection Area, and in Provincial Parks.

Further updates will be provided, as available.