Update: Wildfire in Lac La Biche County contained

The wildfire burning near Township Road 652 and Range Road 165 in Lac La Biche County (north of Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement along Highway 855) is 90 per cent contained, and currently not spreading. However, weather conditions may yet change the situation.

Jihad Moghrabi is the Manager of Communications with Lac La Biche County.

“Around 30 firefighters and four Peace Officers are assisting with the incident,” Moghrabi said. “So far, two small buildings were lost, but crews were able to keep the fire away from residences and buildings with machinery inside. Three residences have been equipped with sprinkler systems as a precaution.”

Moghrabi  says the County would like to thank the Government of Alberta’s Agriculture & Forestry department, Buffalo Lake Métis Settlement’s Fire Department, and Caslan’s Fire Department (Athabasca County) for the excellent assistance that they continue to provide.

“Continue to avoid the area, as there is smoke, equipment and people working. We will provide updates as necessary,” Moghrabi concluded.

Earlier story…

A wildfire which hasn’t grown overnight is still classified as being out of control in Lac La Biche County.

An emergency alert about the wildfire was issued last night by officials in Lac La Biche County warning anyone who lives nearby about possible evacuation. The alert was issued shortly after 6:00 p.m.

EMS is standing by at the staging area set up by County Officials. Arthur C. Green/Lakeland Connect

Fire crews are back this morning assessing the area and deploying resources. Officials say roughly 230 hectares are affected by this fire.

A staging area has been set up for crews as the fire continues to grow.

Area affected by the wildfire. Facebook Image

The fire conditions are expected to increase officials say on the Lac La Biche County Facebook page as the day progresses. The wind speed has increased in the area which could be a factor.

Fire Chief Joseph Patenaude from the Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement Fire Department. Arthur C. Green/Lakeland Connect

Josheph Patenaude is the Fire Chief with Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement.

Chief Patenaude says that choppers were in the area yesterday dumping water to help battle the blaze.

Several roads have been closed in the area. Arthur C. Green/Lakeland Connect

“We have a fire burning since yesterday near Township Road 652 over a quarter of a mile in,” Chief Patenaude told Lakeland Connect. “Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement Fire Department is assisting Lac La Biche crews.”

Officials are asking the public to please continue to avoid the area as there is smoke, equipment and people are in the area.

The residences that have already been spoken to are still under evacuation alert.

Traffic was affected by heavy smoke yesterday but the wind has since shifted. Arthur C. Green/Lakeland Connect