On Monday, the inhabitants of Swan Hills received an urgent warning to be prepared to evacuate within an hour, and shortly after, the evacuation order was issued. An Alberta Emergency Alert released at 6:16 p.m. informed the 1,300 residents that a wildfire was approaching the town, prompting them to move south with essential items. The town arranged a reception center at the Allan & Jean Millar Centre in Whitecourt for registration. Additionally, a bus was available at the Keyano Centre parking lot for those needing transportation.
The Edith Lake wildfire started near the community on Sunday, and by Monday, it was perilously close to Swan Hills. The highway leading north of town was closed due to poor visibility caused by smoke and increased fire intensity due to strong winds.
Tuesday will see the deployment of crews and resources to combat the wildfire near Swan Hills. The fire risk in the area was classified as extreme by Alberta Wildfire due to unfavorable weather conditions.
Alberta Wildfire has been actively working to contain the fire, with support from air tankers and firefighting crews. While temperatures are expected to cool down temporarily, a return to hot weather is forecasted for later in the week.
The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as the events unfold.
