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Update (11:30 a.m.): Alberta Premier Rachel Notley provided an update Saturday morning on the situation in Fort McMurray, stating, “In no way is this fire under control.”
Premier Notley said a mandatory evacuation order is still in effect in the Alberta community, and will be for some time.
“I know the people of Fort McMurray want to get back into their homes as quickly as possible and I’m hoping I’ll be able to give you a sense of when you can go home shortly. But as I’ve said before, the return won’t be in coming days.”
Officials confirmed the wildfire is still burning out of control, estimated to be 156,000 hectares large. The premier was able to offer a small amount of good news, stating the fire was burning to the northeast, away from the community. However, Saturday’s weather is predicted to be significantly worse for fighting fires.
“Temperatures are forecasted in the high 20’s with winds gusting up to 40 kilometres per hour,” said Notley.
“In these conditions, officials tell us the fire may double in size in the forested areas Saturday. As well, the fire may reach the Saskatchewan border. In no way is this fire under control.”
Original Story:
Fire conditions in Fort McMurray remain extreme, with crews saying there have been 12 new starts across the province as of Friday.
The fire is currently over 150,000 hectares in size. Officials said overnight the winds shifted north, away from much of the devestation in Fort McMurray but winds and high temperatures means the fire is only expected to grow.
Friday night, the Alberta provincial government said a total of 40 wildfires are now burning in the province, with five of those out of control.
Temperatures are in Fort McMurray Saturday are not expected to provide any relief to those fighting the blaze. A high of 26 degrees is expected Saturday with winds gusting up to 40 kilometres per hour.
As of Friday, approximately 1,200 vehicles and thousands of people were successfully able to pass through RCMP control point near the Parsons Creek Interchange north of Fort McMurray. RCMP escorted vehicles southbound until 10 p.m. Friday night, resuming Saturday morning.
Officials will continue to update the situation throughout the day.
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