UPDATE #2: Blueberry Mountain Wildfire (GWF028)

Yesterday, strong winds and ongoing dry conditions caused increased activity in wildfire GWF028, located in the Blueberry Mountain area, resulting in extreme fire behaviour. Smoke has limited visibility today, so an updated perimeter and size assessment is still underway. Currently, the wildfire is estimated to be approximately 5 km northwest of Moonshine Lake Provincial Park. Alberta Wildfire is responding with firefighters, heavy equipment, and air support.

The Emergency Coordination Centre has been activated and crews from the Blueberry and Happy Valley fire departments are responding. Overnight patrols were conducted to monitor fire activity and crews are currently protecting structures with sprinklers and checking for spot fires.

Saddle Hills County has expanded the Evacuation Order, to include all those located between Twp Rd 794 and Hwy 49, between Rge Rd 94 and Rge Rd 85. An order is also in place for everyone located between Rge Rd 95 and Hwy 725, and Twp Rd 794 and Twp Rd 802, including Moonshine Lake Provincial Park. All those in these areas should evacuate immediately. Please bring all essential items and documents, including medication and pet supplies, for up to seven days.

All evacuees should register at Evacuation Centre, located at the Blueberry Mountain Hall, on Hwy 680 and Rge Rd 82.

The following areas are on an Evacuation Alert:

• Between Range Road 95 and Highway 725, and Township Road 802 and Township Road 810.
• Everyone outside of the Evacuation Order, between Range Road 95 and Highway 725, and Township 794 and Highway 49.
• ·Between Township Road 802 and Highway 49, and Highway 725 and Range Road 82.

Anyone in these areas should be prepared to evacuate within one hour.

Highway 725 is currently open but could close if conditions worsen. The public are advised to avoid the area and use alternate routes where possible. Township Road 794 is closed between Range Road 94 and Range Road 85.

Emergency resources and shelters for those evacuating livestock, can be found here.

Evacuees seeking assistance or further information, should contact Saddle Hills County, at (780) 864-2031.

Due the evolving nature of this fire, further updates will be provided as available.