Wildfire prompts closure of Highway 16 near Elk Island National Park

A devastating wildfire has caused chaos near Elk Island National Park, resulting in the closure of Highway 16 and a now-cancelled evacuation alert. The fire, which spread to multiple structures in the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, has left a trail of destruction in its wake, prompting authorities to take swift action.

The grassfire, which started behind the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, led to the closure of Highway 16 in both directions between the park entrance and Range Road 194. As of 9 p.m., the highway remains closed, causing inconvenience to travelers in the area. An emergency alert was issued at 8:24 p.m., advising residents near the village to prepare for evacuation as a precaution. Fortunately, the alert was cancelled at 8:51 p.m., bringing some relief to the affected individuals.

Fort Saskatchewan RCMP have urged the public to steer clear of the area and seek alternate routes to avoid congestion. Initially deemed out-of-control, the fire is now considered contained, providing some respite to the authorities battling the blaze. However, the situation remains volatile, with the extent of damages yet to be confirmed by officials.

The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, an open-air museum showcasing the early settlers’ life and Ukrainian culture, bore the brunt of the fire. With historic buildings at risk, the village has suffered significant losses. Jay Zaal, a spokesperson from Lamont County, revealed that the fire has even encroached upon the north side of Highway 16, adding to the challenges faced by firefighting crews.

Despite efforts to contain the fire, high winds have hampered air support, complicating the firefighting process. Elk Island National Park and Lamont County are currently under a fire restriction, underscoring the severity of the situation. Lamont County Emergency Services, with support from Strathcona County, have been working tirelessly since the fire erupted around 4 p.m.

Alberta Wildfire authorities have confirmed that the fire falls outside the province’s forest protection area, and regional firefighting agencies have not requested additional assistance. With the situation evolving rapidly, it is essential for residents and authorities to remain vigilant and cooperate to mitigate the impact of the wildfire. The community’s resilience will be crucial in overcoming this crisis and rebuilding what has been lost to the flames.