Fire photo by Darry Russell
UPDATE 5:51 p.m.: The wildfire near the junction of Highway 63 and 69 continues to burn. The size of the blaze is estimated at 10 hectares (25 acres). Alberta Wildfire currently has air-tankers, helicopters, and several personnel from both Regional Emergency Services and Alberta Wildfire working to extinguish the blaze. The Highways remain open, but police are advising drivers exercise extreme caution and give plenty of space for crews to do their work.
UPDATE 4:45 p.m RCMP have advised Highway 63 has reopened for traffic. The Police are asking drivers to allow extra space between vehicles as crews continue to fight the fire. Motorists can expect delays due to the ongoing situation, and conditions may change with little notice. The Police are prepared to close the highway again if the wildfire in the area grows or begins to threaten the highway.
UPDATE 4:24 p.m. Jessica Lipton, a spokesperson with the Fort McMurray International Airport, says the fire is not affecting flight operations at this time. Anyone seeking to access the airport is advised to take a detour onto Gregoire Drive which allows for access to Highway 69 east of the current closure. Again, to access the Airport, please detour onto Gregoire Drive. Flights are not affected at this time.
FORT MCMURRAY, Alta. April 25, 4:00 p.m.— A wildfire is burning near the intersection of Highway 69 (Airport Road) and Highway 63, prompting RCMP to close both northbound and southbound lanes Thursday afternoon.
Emergency crews are on the scene and working hard to fight the blaze. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes as fire activity continues near the busy junction, and visibility is very limited.
A spokesperson with Alberta Wildfire says Helicopters and crews are on scene to assist in the blaze, and waterbombers are en route to the fire and expected to arrive shortly:
Details remain limited as the situation develops. Harvard Media News is working to gather more information and will provide updates as they become available.
Fire photo by Darry Russell
Fire photo by Darry Russell
Fire photo by Darry Russell
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