As of Friday afternoon, Alberta government officials have lifted the province-wide fire ban due to improved conditions and the efforts of firefighters.
However, officials caution that many fire bans and restrictions still exist in areas of the province and the wildfire outlook continues to be severe.
According to the province, eight new wildfires have been reported in the last 24 hours. Currently 41 wildfires are burning across Alberta – five of which are considered to be out-of-control.
Officials report the fire burning near Cold Lake is five kilometers from CNRL infrastructure and 20 kilometers from Cenovus infrastructure. However, the province says no imminent risk exists.
While the cooler, wet weather is expected for parts of Alberta, officials also say it will not reduce the wildfire hazard in much of the North.
Since April 1, officials report 748 fires and 43,358 hectares have burned.
Approximately 1,700 firefighters, 159 helicopters and 28 airtankers have been positioned across Alberta fighting wildfires. Another 37 firefighters are being imported from British Columbia today – in addition to 273 that have been brought in since last Friday.
All evacuation orders have been lifted. However, Cenovus and CNRL voluntary evacuations remain in effect.
Air quality in much of the northern regions of the province is affected by the smoke. According to Alberta Health Services, Precautionary Air Quality Advisories are in effect for the entire North and Edmonton areas. The Cold Lake Air Quality Advisory issued earlier this week remains in effect. Visit AHS online for the latest details.
The province is asking all Albertans to respect fire bans and restrictions in place across the province. More information can be found online.
