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Wildfire ignites near Peers, Alberta
A wildfire has erupted just south of Peers, a small hamlet in Yellowhead County, forcing local residents to evacuate. The fire, detected on Thursday evening, has already consumed approximately 15 hectares and crossed Highway 32, raising significant concerns for the safety of the community.
Peers, home to around 100 residents, is located about 150 kilometers west of Edmonton, making this incident particularly alarming for those living in the rural area.
Evacuation orders and safety measures
As the flames spread, authorities have issued evacuation orders for both Peers and surrounding rural properties.
Residents are being directed to the Holiday Inn in Edson, where an evacuation center has been established. The evacuation routes have been clearly marked: those to the north can take Highway 32, while those southeast of Peers should head west on Highway 16.
The closure of Highway 32, just one kilometer south of Peers, has added urgency to the evacuation efforts, as flames threaten to engulf the area.
Firefighting efforts underway
In response to the wildfire, a coordinated effort is underway involving Alberta Wildfire crews, Yellowhead County firefighters, and various heavy equipment.
Helicopters and airtankers are also being deployed to combat the blaze from above. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates are expected as firefighting efforts continue. With a red flag watch currently in effect across Alberta, the risk of fire has been heightened due to warm temperatures, low humidity, and strong winds, making this wildfire particularly dangerous.
