*Further updates will be posted should the situation change. Albertans are encouraged to check Alberta.ca for the latest information.

Residents in the following communities of Mackenzie County are able to return home:

  • The Rocky Lane and High Level area north of the Peace River, south of Highway 58, west of Range Road 150 and south and southeast of High Level
  • The Hamlet of La Crete and the rural area outside the hamlet
  • Range Road 164 to Range Road 150, south of the Peace River, north and south of Highway 697

Additional information is online at https://www.facebook.com/Mackenzie-County-262409787134568/.

Approximately 900 people in the following communities will be able to go home on Tuesday morning.

  • Beaver First Nation - Boyer River (No. 164) and Child Lake (No. 164A)
  • Dene Tha’ First Nation - Bushe River (No. 207)

The following communities are on evacuation alert and should be ready to leave quickly if the situation changes:

  • High Level
  • Mackenzie County
    • Area west of Range Road 164, south of the Peace River to Township Road 1010, and the Machesis Lake campground
    • Residents returning home today are on an evacuation alert

Current situation

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 331,900 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, north of Lutose, is about 77,400 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex located in the Slave Lake Forest area, is more than 273,000 hectares.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.
  • There are currently 20 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Two are out of control, six are being held, seven are under control and five have been turned over to the responsible parties.
  • Firefighters from across Canada, the United States and Mexico are on the ground helping to keep Albertans safe.

Visit alberta.ca/emergency for detailed and frequently updated information.

Air quality

  • Wildfire smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times.
  • Parts of northwestern Alberta are under special air quality statements.
  • Visit FireSmoke Canada for information and resources about smoke from wildland fires.

Financial supports

  • The following communities are now eligible for the one-time evacuation payment: Mackenzie County, Beaver First Nation, Tompkins Landing, Blue Hills and the Hamlet of La Crete.
  • Evacuees should check alberta.ca/emergency for updates on evacuation payment eligibility.
  • You may qualify for the evacuation payment if you:
    • were forced to leave your residence (primary, working or vacationing) due to a mandatory evacuation order
    • paid for most of your costs to evacuate
  • Albertans who qualify will receive $1,250 and $500 for each dependent child under 18 living in the same home when the evacuation order was given.
  • Apply online through the MyAlberta Evacuation Payment application using a smartphone, device or desktop. Interac e-transfers may take 24 hours to process.
  • If you need help applying, contact Alberta Supports to find the nearest centre: Toll-free: 1-877-644-9992 (Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.) In-person: Find an Alberta Supports Centre.
  • More than 11,700 individuals have received evacuee support totalling $11.9 million.

Reception and call centres

  • All evacuees need to register with an evacuation reception centre even if you have found alternate accommodations.
  • Reception centres may assist evacuees in person and/or by phone.
  • Mackenzie County evacuees must register at Fort Vermilion – Mackenzie County Office, 4511 46 Avenue, 780-927-3718.
  • The Government of Alberta contact centre is open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Friday. Call 310-4455.

Insurance information

  • Most home and tenant insurance policies provide coverage for living expenses during an evacuation.
  • Evacuees should retain all of their receipts for food, accommodation and other related expenses to provide to their insurer.
  • Albertans can contact the Insurance Bureau of Canada at 1-844-227-5422 or by email at [email protected]. Information about insurance coverage is available online at ibc.ca/ab/disaster/alberta-wildfire.

Re-entry information

Evacuees can find tips on re-entry by visiting https://www.alberta.ca/emergency.aspx. Information includes making sure all your utilities are working, cleaning up and how to deal with door-to-door salespeople offering services and insurance.

Justice and legal matters

If you have an appointment with a probation officer in an evacuated area, report to the community corrections office nearest you. Please call 780-427-3109 (to call toll-free, first dial 310-0000) for information.

Boil water advisory

A boil water advisory is in place for Meander River (Dene Tha’ First Nation).

Health

Mental health support is available by calling Alberta’s 24-hour help line at 1-877-303-2642, the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322, or Health Link at 811.

Donations and volunteers

  • Check the Mackenzie County Facebook page for an up-to-date list of donations needed and drop-off locations.
  • When asked for donations (either over the phone, through an email, or in person), ask the canvasser for identification or printed information about the charity.
  • If you have concerns about the activities of a charitable organization including its fundraising practices, call Service Alberta: 1-877-427-4088.

Canada Post

  • Mail and parcel delivery in certain communities has been affected by the wildfires.
  • Canada Post has contingency measures in place to serve residents of these communities.
  • Check the Canada Post website for updates.

Other income and social supports

  • Evacuees who receive Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped or Income Support benefits by cheque should contact their worker to make arrangements to receive it.
  • Call Alberta Supports at 1-877-644-9992 between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m., Monday to Friday if you:
    • need information on other social supports
    • are a contracted service provider, family member or individual needing assistance through the Persons with Developmental Disabilities program
  • Evacuees in need of financial assistance for immediate needs can apply for an Income Support program emergency needs allowance. This benefit may cover your accommodation, clothing and other urgent needs. Please call 1-877-644-9992 for more information.
  • For information on child intervention and child care, call 1-800-638-0715.
  • Employment insurance: evacuees can visit Service Canada online to apply at www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei.html. Use code 4812014812201900.

Public information

You can call 310-4455 for more information – Monday to Friday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Backgrounder

Previous updates

Update 24: June 21 (4 p.m.)

Residents of Trout Lake and high-risk persons from the First Nation evacuated on June 17. This was the second time some residents evacuated due to these wildfires. 

Residents from the Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement continue to return home today, about 200 returned yesterday. Additional information for residents is online at https://www.facebook.com/paddleprairie

Approximately 8,100 people are still under evacuation orders.

The following communities issued mandatory evacuation orders this week:

  • Beaver First Nation - Boyer River (No. 164) and Child Lake (No. 164A)
  • Dene Tha’ First Nation - Bushe River (No. 207)
  • Mackenzie County
    • The Rocky Lane and High Level area north of the Peace River, south of Highway 58, west of Range Road 150
    • The Hamlet of La Crete
    • Range Road 164 to Range Road 150, south of the Peace River, north of Highway 697

The following communities remain on evacuation alert and should be ready to leave quickly if the situation changes:

  • High Level
  • Mackenzie County
    • Area west of Range Road 164, south of the Peace River to Township Road 1010, and the Machesis Lake campground

Current situation

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 331,200 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, north of Lutose, is about 77,500 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex located in the Slave Lake Forest area, is more than 273,500 hectares.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 23: June 20 (4 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 330,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, north of Lutose, is about 77,500 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex located in the Slave Lake Forest area, is more than 276,800 hectares.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 22: June 19 (4 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 325,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, north of Lutose, is about 75,600 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex located in the Slave Lake Forest area, is more than 275,100 hectares.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 21: June 18 (5 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 324,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, north of Lutose, is about 75,680 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex located in the Slave Lake Forest area, is more than 275,000 hectares.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 20: June 14 (5 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 270,860 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 43,977 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 263,853 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 55,179 hectares. This fire is now classified as being held.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 19: June 12 (5 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 269,648 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 28,167 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 263,969 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 55,179 hectares.
  • There are more than 2,000 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 159 helicopters and 22 air tankers and 233 pieces of heavy equipment on these fires.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.
  • Be cautious of organizations not registered to solicit donations. For information on how you can help, visit https://www.alberta.ca/emergency.aspx.

Update 18: June 10 (5:30 p.m.)

  • Approximately 3,500 people from Bigstone Cree Nation and the Hamlet of Wabasca-Desmarais will be able to return home on Wednesday, June 12.
  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 265,925 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 28,167 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 259,539 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 54,255 hectares.
  • There are more than 2,000 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 150 helicopters and 22 air tankers and 241 pieces of heavy equipment on these fires.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.
  • Be cautious of organizations not registered to solicit donations. For information on how you can help, visit alberta.ca/emergency.

Update 17: June 7 (6 p.m.)

Rain continues to fall in many areas of Alberta while the High Level area experiences cool temperatures. Mackenzie County lifts mandatory evacuation order but warns residents to be ready to leave if conditions change.

Fire ban and OHV restriction lifted for some areas while others remain in place.  For the latest information, check albertafirebans.ca.

Approximately 4,700 evacuees remain displaced.

The following communities remain on evacuation alert:

  • Keg River, Carcajou and all residents from the northern border of the County of Northern Lights to Township Road 922 (Notikewin Road)
  • Peerless Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • Town of Manning and some surrounding areas
  • Parts of Mackenzie County immediately north and South of High Level, along with a portion of the Blue Hills / Tomkins area
  • High Level
  • Dene Tha’ First Nation Community of Bushe River

Mandatory evacuations remain in place for:

  • Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement
  • Steen River
  • The Trout Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • Bigstone Cree Nation
    • Wabasca No. 166
  • Parts of the MD of Opportunity No. 17
  • Hamlet of Wabasca – Desmarais
  • Hamlet of Sandy Lake
  • Chipewyan Lake Village

Current situation:

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 275,925 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 28,100 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 257,047 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 56,200 hectares.
  • There are more than 2,100 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 223 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment on these fires.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 16: June 6 (6 p.m.)

Wet, cooler weather has contributed to conditions that make it easier for fighting wildfires across the province. Rain continues to fall in many areas of Alberta while the High Level area experiences cool temperatures.

Approximately 4,800 evacuees remain displaced. Steen River and Trout Lake evacuees are now eligible for evacuation payments.

The following communities remain on evacuation alert:

  • Keg River, Carcajou and all residents from the northern border of the County of Northern Lights to Township Road 922 (Notikewin Road)
  • Hamlet of Sandy Lake
  • Town of Slave Lake
  • MD of Lesser Slave Lake, including Old Smith Highway, Mitsue, Poplar Lane, Fawcett Lake, Eben Road and Bayer Road
  • Peerless Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • Town of Manning and some surrounding areas
  • Mackenzie County: everyone north and south of the Peace River from Township Road 1030 north to Township Road 1110, west of Range Road 120 to Highway 35 south and southeast of High Level, and east of Range Road 180 (Blue Hills Road)

Mandatory evacuations remain in place for:

  • Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement
  • Some areas of Mackenzie County: west of Blues Creek, north of Highway 697, west of Blue Hills Road (RR 180) and north of Township Road 1030 and La Crete Ferry Campground to the Peace River.
  • Steen River
  • The Trout Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • Bigstone Cree Nation
    • Wabasca No. 166
  • Parts of the MD of Opportunity No. 17
  • Hamlet of Wabasca – Desmarais
  • Hamlet of Sandy Lake
  • Chipewyan Lake Village

Current situation:

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 275,985 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 28,100 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 248,000 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 56,200 hectares.
  • There are more than 2,100 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 223 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment on these fires.
  • Check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 15: June 5 (7 p.m.)

Current situation:

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 275,985 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 28,000 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 238,954 hectares.
  • There are two wildfires in Wood Buffalo National Park. Parks Canada reports them to be 69,882 hectares and 4,039 hectares in size.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 56,200 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include more than 2,000 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 223 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 14: June 4 (5 p.m.)

Current situation:

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 275,985 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 24,730 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 246,083 hectares.
  • There are two wildfires in Wood Buffalo National Park. Parks Canada reports them to be 69,882 hectares and 4,039 hectares in size.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 56,200 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include more than 2,000 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 223 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 13: June 3 (7 p.m.)

High Level, the surrounding areas of Mackenzie County and the Dene Tha’ First Nation communities of Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh, have been cleared for residents to return.

Returning residents will be under an evacuation alert and should be prepared to leave on short notice if conditions change.

The following communities remain on evacuation alert:

  • Town of Slave Lake
  • MD of Lesser Slave Lake, including Old Smith Highway, Mitsue, Poplar Lane, Fawcett Lake, Eben Road and Bayer Road
  • Peerless Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • Town of Manning and some surrounding areas
  • Mackenzie County: everyone north and south of the Peace River from Township Road 1030 north to Township Road 1110, west of Range Road 120 to Highway 35 south and southeast of High Level, and east of Range Road 180 (Blue Hills Road)

Mandatory evacuations remain in place for:

  • Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement
  • Some areas of Mackenzie County: west of Blues Creek, north of Highway 697, west of Blue Hills Road (RR 180) and north of Township Road 1030 and La Crete Ferry Campground to the Peace River.
  • Keg River, Carcajou, and all residents from the northern border of the County of Northern Lights to Township Road 922 (Notikewin Road)
    • Bigstone Cree Nation
      • Wabasca No. 166
    • Parts of the MD of Opportunity No. 17
    • Hamlet of Wabasca – Desmarais
    • Hamlet of Sandy Lake
    • Chipewyan Lake Village
  • Steen River
  • The Trout Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • MD of Lesser Slave River
  • Hamlet of Marten Beach

Current situation

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 280,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 kilometres north of Lutose, is about 24,700 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 238,254 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 55,324 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include more than 2,300 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 228 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 12: June 2 (6:30 p.m.)

Beginning Monday at 10 a.m., residents can return to High Level, the surrounding areas of Mackenzie County and the Dene Tha’ First Nation communities of Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh.

Returning residents will be under an evacuation alert and should be prepared to leave on short notice if conditions change.

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 280,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 km north of Lutose, is about 24,700 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 212,386 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 53,900 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include more than 2,300 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 228 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • Approximately 11,000 people have been evacuated.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 11: June 1 (6:30 p.m.)

New evacuation alert in place for:

  • Approximately 12,000 residents in Mackenzie County, north of the Peace River to Township Road 1110, west of Range Road 120, and east of Highway 35 south of High Level; and south of the Peace River to Township Road 1040, west of Range Road 120 and east of Steep Hill Creek should be prepared to evacuate on short notice.

The following communities remain on eight-hour evacuation alert:

  • Town of Slave Lake
  • MD of Lesser Slave Lake, including Old Smith Highway, Mitsue, Poplar Lane, Fawcett Lake, Eben Road and Bayer Road
  • Peerless Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation

Mandatory evacuations remain in place for:

  • Town of High Level and Mackenzie County areas south/southeast of town
  • Dene Tha' First Nation communities of Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh
  • Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement
  • Keg River, Carcajou, and all residents from the northern border of the County of Northern Lights to Township Road 922 (Notikewin Road)
    • Bigstone Cree Nation
      • Wabasca No. 166
    • Parts of the MD of Opportunity No. 17
    • Hamlet of Wabasca – Desmarais
    • Hamlet of Sandy Lake
    • Chipewyan Lake Village
  • Steen River
  • The Trout Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • MD of Lesser Slave River
    • Hamlet of Marten Beach
  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 280,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 km north of Lutose, is about 24,700 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is more than 212,386 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is about 53,900 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include more than 2,300 wildland and structural firefighters and staff, approximately 228 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • Approximately 11,000 people have been evacuated.
  • AHS has evacuated 19 patients from the Manning Community Health Centre as a precaution due to smoke concerns and approximately 37 patients from a hospital in Fort Vermillion.
  • People driving in fire-affected areas should carry enough fuel, as it may not be readily available.

Update 10: May 31, 2019 (5 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, is about 237,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, approximately 11 km north of Lutose, is about 24,700 hectares.
  • McMillan Wildfire Complex, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is over 178,000 hectares.
  • Battle Wildfire Complex in Peace River is over 52,600 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include over 1,892 wildland firefighters and staff, approximately 142 helicopters and 28 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • New mandatory evacuations have been issued for:
    • The Trout Lake area of Peerless Trout First Nation
  • Cabinet approved two orders in council to release funds to cover emergency response, including structural firefighting efforts, evacuation costs, reception centre costs, and recovery costs including fire prevention, suppression, reclamation and reforestation.
  • Mandatory evacuations remain in place for:
    • Town of High Level and Mackenzie County areas south/southeast of town
    • Dene Tha' First Nation communities of Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh
    • Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement
    • Keg River, Carcajou, and all residents from the northern border of the County of Northern Lights to Township Road 922 (Notikewin Road)
    • Bigstone Cree Nation
      • Wabasca No. 166
    • Parts of the MD of Opportunity No. 17
      • Hamlet of Wabasca – Desmarais
      • Hamlet of Sandy Lake
      • Chipewyan Lake Village
    • Steen River
  • The Town of Slave Lake is on an eight-hour evacuation alert. This is not an evacuation order, but residents should be prepared to evacuate on short notice.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • Officials are preparing for residents to re-enter High Level once public safety has been confirmed.
  • Approximately 11,000 people have been evacuated due to wildfire activity.
  • People driving through the area should carry enough fuel for travel as fuel may not be readily available.
  • A request was made for federal aviation support and a logistical team to help communities impacted by wildfires. 

Update 9: May 30, 2019 (7 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek wildfire, southwest of High Level, has grown to over 230,000 hectares.
  • Jackpot Creek wildfire, formerly west of Steen River, is about 17,000 hectares.
  • McMillan Complex wildfire, southwest of Bigstone Cree Nation, is over 74,500 hectares.
  • Maria Lake wildfire was last estimated at 5,500 hectares in size and is expected to burn into the larger McMillan Complex wildfire.
  • Battle Complex wildfire in Peace River is over 44,000 hectares.
  • Provincial resources on the ground include over 2,300 wildland firefighters and staff, approximately 200 helicopters and 27 air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • Cabinet approved two orders in council to release funds to cover emergency response, including structural firefighting efforts, evacuation costs, reception centre costs, and recovery costs including fire prevention, suppression, reclamation and reforestation.
  • New mandatory evacuations have been issued for:
    • Keg River, Carcajou and all residents from the northern border of the County of Northern Lights to Township Road 922 (Notikewin Road)
    • Sandy Lake
    • Wabasca, the Bigstone Cree Nation and Chipewyan Lake Village
    • Hamlet of Marten Beach
    • Lesser Slave Lak Provincial Park
  • Mandatory evacuations remain in place for:
    • Town of High Level and Mackenzie County areas south/southeast of town
    • Dene Tha’ First Nation communities of Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh
    • Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement
  • The Town of Slave Lake is on an 8-hour evacuation alert. This is not an evacuation order, but residents should be prepared to evacuate on short notice.
  • Residents should check Alberta Emergency Alerts for more detailed and frequently updated information.
  • Officials are preparing for residents to re-enter High Level once public safety has been confirmed.
  • Approximately 7,500 evacuees have registered at an evacuee reception centre.

Update 8: May 29, 2019 (6 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately three kilometres southwest of the Town of High Level in Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire has grown to more than 150,000 hectares.
  • Resources on the ground include about 390 wildland firefighters and staff, 28 helicopters and heavy equipment.
  • Cabinet approved two orders in council to release funds to cover emergency response including structural firefighting efforts, evacuation costs, reception centre costs, and recovery costs as well as fire prevention, suppression, reclamation and reforestation costs.
  • Parts of northern Alberta remain under a special air quality advisory.
  • New mandatory evacuations have been issued for:
    • La Crete Ferry Campground
    • Steen River
    • Hawk Hills
    • Keg River
    • Carcajou
    • Residents living between Township Road 922 and north to Northern Lights County.
  • Officials are preparing for residents to re-enter High Level once public safety has been confirmed.

Update 7: May 28, 2019 (5 p.m.)

  • Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately three kilometres southwest of the Town of High Level in Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire has grown to more than 130,000 hectares.
  • Parts of northern Alberta remain under a special air quality advisory.
  • Resources on the ground include about 420 wildland firefighters, 168 structural fighters and staff, supported by helicopters, air tankers and heavy equipment.
  • A voluntary evacuation is in place for Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and areas north of High Level.

Update 6: May 27, 2019 (5 p.m.)

  • The Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately three kilometres southwest of the Town of High Level in Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire has grown to more than 127,000 hectares.
  • Communities in the north of the province may experience heavy smoke from the fires in the next 24 hours.
  • Resources on the ground include about 400 wildland firefighters, 194 structural fighters and staff on the ground, supported by 28 helicopters, eight air tankers and 46 pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Evacuation centres have registered approximately 4,470 people as of May 27 at noon.
  • A voluntary evacuation is in place for Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and areas north of High Level.
  • The province is providing one-time financial support to evacuees displaced by northwest wildfires.
  • You may qualify for the evacuation payment if you were:
    • living, working or vacationing in the affected area
    • forced to leave due to an evacuation order
    • paid for most of your costs to evacuate
  • Albertans who qualify will receive $1,250 for each adult and $500 for each dependent child.
  • Applications are open:
    • Online (Interac e-transfers may take 24 hours to go through)
    • In person at evacuation reception centres
    • If you require assistance registering, call 310-4455. If you’re having technical issues, contact My Alberta Digital ID at 1-844-643-2789 (Monday to Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
  • Evacuees can apply online for employment insurance using this code: 4812014812201900. Visit Service Canada to apply: www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei.html
  • Detailed information is available on emergency.alberta.ca, which is updated frequently.

Update 5: May 26, 2019 (4 p.m.)

  • The Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately three kilometres southwest of the Town of High Level in Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire has grown to more than 105,000 hectares.
  • Communities in the north of the province may experience heavy smoke from the fires in the next 24 hours.
  • Resources on the ground include about 400 wildland firefighters, 194 structural fighters and staff on the ground, supported by 28 helicopters, eight air tankers and 46 pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Evacuation centres have registered approximately 4,300 people as of May 26 at noon.
  • A voluntary evacuation is in place for Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and areas north of High Level.
  • The province is providing one-time financial support to evacuees displaced by northwest wildfires.
  • You may qualify for the evacuation payment if you were:
    • living, working or vacationing in the affected area
    • forced to leave due to an evacuation order
    • paid for most of your costs to evacuate
  • Albertans who qualify will receive $1,250 for each adult and $500 for each dependent child.
  • Applications are open:
    • Online – started Sunday, May 26 (Interac e-transfers may take 24 hours to go through)
    • In person at evacuation reception centres – starting Monday, May 27
    • If you require assistance registering, call 310-4455
  • You can apply online for employment insurance using this code: 4812014812201900. The regular wait time is waived. To apply: www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei.html

Update 4: May 24, 2019 (5 p.m.)

  • The Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately three kilometres southwest of the Town of High Level in Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire has grown to almost 100,000 hectares.
  • Resources on the ground include about 261 wildland firefighters, 154 structural fighters and staff on the ground, supported by 28 helicopters, eight air tankers and 46 pieces of heavy equipment.
  • Continuing dry and windy conditions in most of Alberta have increased the danger of forest fires.
  • Evacuation centres have registered approximately 3,700 people as of May 24 at 2 p.m.
  • A voluntary evacuation is in place for Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and areas north of High Level.
  • The province will provide one-time financial support to evacuees displaced by northwest wildfires.
  • You may qualify for the evacuation payment if you were:
    • living, working or vacationing in the affected area
    • forced to leave due to an evacuation order
    • paid for most of your costs to evacuate
  • Albertans who qualify will receive $1,250 for each adult and $500 for each dependent child.
  • Applications will open:
    • Online – starting Sunday, May 26 (Interac e-transfers may take 24 hours to go through)
    • In person at evacuation reception centres – starting Monday, May 27
    • If you require assistance registering, call 310-4455
  • Alberta Health Services evacuated 19 patients from the Manning Community Health Centre due to smoke from the wildfires.
  • Detailed information is available on emergency.alberta.ca, which is updated frequently.
  • Alberta Emergency Alerts has cancelled the High Level and Bushe River Reserve emergency alerts and have consolidated them into a larger Mackenzie County alert.

Update 3: May 23, 2019 (4:50 p.m.)

  • The Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately three kilometres south of the Town of High Level in Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire is almost 92,000 hectares.
  • Alberta Wildfire, Alberta Emergency Management Agency and local authorities are cooperating in the response.
  • Albertans should be prepared to be away from home longer than initially planned.
  • Evacuees are asked to report to reception centres in Peace River, High Prairie, Grande Prairie, Slave Lake, Fort Vermilion and Hay River.
  • Firefighters are focusing efforts on containing the wildfire outside High Level.
  • Yesterday, a break in conditions allowed a controlled burn between the wildfire and the town to consume materials that could have become fuel for the wildfire.
  • Peace River is reporting reduced visibility due to the smoke which is expected to stay until tomorrow.
  • Resources on the ground include about 143 wildland firefighters, 154 structural fighters and staff on the ground, supported by 28 helicopters, air tankers, 10 structural protection units and heavy machinery.
  • Continuing dry and windy conditions in most of Alberta have increased the danger of forest fires.
  • Fire bans and off-highway vehicle restrictions are now in place for central and northern areas of the province.
  • Approximately 5,000 people have been evacuated from High Level and the neighbouring communities.
  • Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for the Town of High Level and parts of Mackenzie County south of High Level.
  • Dene Tha’ First Nation declared an evacuation order for Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh.
  • A voluntary evacuation is in place for Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement and areas north of High Level.
  • Alberta Health Services evacuated 15 patients from the Manning Community Health Centre due to smoke from the wildfires.
  • The emergency department at Manning Community Health Centre remains open.
  • Power, wireless services and gas have been restored to the Town of High Level, Mackenzie County and the Dene Tha’ First Nation.
  • Detailed information is available on emergency.alberta.ca, which is updated frequently.

Update 2: May 22, 2019 (4:50 p.m.)

  • The Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately five kilometres south of the Town of High Level within Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire is almost 92,000 hectares.
  • Alberta Wildfire, Alberta Emergency Management Agency and local authorities are cooperating in the response.
  • Alberta Wildfire has about 76 firefighters and staff on the ground, supported by nine helicopters, air tankers, 10 structural protection units and heavy machinery.
  • Winds are forecast from the east and northeast, driving the fire away from High Level and neighbouring communities.
  • Continuing dry and windy conditions in most of Alberta have increased the danger of forest fires. Fire bans and off-highway vehicle restrictions are now in place for central and northern areas of the province.
  • Approximately 5,000 people have been evacuated from High Level and the neighbouring communities.
  • Mandatory evacuation orders are in place for the Town of High Level and parts of Mackenzie County south of High Level.
  • Dene Tha’ First Nation declared an evacuation order for Bushe River, Meander River and Chateh.
  • Detailed information is available on emergency.alberta.ca, which is updated frequently.
  • Mental health support is available by calling Alberta’s 24-hour Mental Health Help Line at 1-877-303-2642.

Update 1: May 21, 2019 (4:50 p.m.)

  • The Chuckegg Creek Wildfire is burning approximately five kilometres south of the Town of High Level within Mackenzie County.
  • This out-of-control wildfire is almost 80,000 hectares.
  • Alberta Wildfire, Alberta Emergency Management Agency and local authorities are cooperating in the response.
  • Alberta Wildfire has about 90 firefighters and staff on the ground, supported by 25 helicopters, air tankers, 10 structural protection units and heavy machinery.
  • Hot and dry conditions in northern Alberta are forecast to continue for the foreseeable future, with the fire danger expected to increase.
  • Evacuation orders are in place for the Town of High Level and parts of Mackenzie County south of High Level.
  • Dene Tha’ First Nation declared an evacuation order for Bushe River and Meander River. Chateh is under an evacuation alert, with high-risk individuals being evacuated.
  • Approximately 5,000 people have been evacuated.

Detailed information is available on emergency.alberta.ca, which is updated frequently.