A raging wildfire in Fort McMurray, Alberta is forcing residents from their homes with a mandatory evacuation in place for the entire urban service area.
Evacuation Notice – May 3, 6:20 p.m. #ymm #ymmfire #fortmcmurray pic.twitter.com/0mdcIJjwQz
— RMWB (@RMWoodBuffalo) May 4, 2016
The wildfire has breached Highway 63 and the north edge of the fire is said to be growing rapidly.
The government of Alberta is advising drivers not to travel to the Fort McMurray area and access to that Highway has been closed off at the Highway 881 intersection just south of Fort McMurray.
The government says “anyone who must be on the highway to support the fire response is asked to use extreme caution due to reduced visibility and high traffic volume as residents evacuate the area”
Alberta Premier Rachel Notley is urging everyone to follow the directions of officials and to download the emergency alert app.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted that he is thinking of those impacted by the wildfire in Fort McMurray.
My thoughts are with people affected by the fire in Fort McMurray tonight. Stay safe and remember to follow evacuation orders. #ymmfire
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) May 3, 2016
(photo from Google)