Historic hotel on fire in Athabasca, Alta.

Firefighters on scene at the Union Hotel in Athabasca, Alta. on July 23, 2024. (Source: X/@KentTheMountain)

Emergency crews are on scene at a fire at the Union Hotel in Athabasca.

The hotel is located at the intersection of Highways 55 and 2, which serves as Athabasca's main thoroughfare.

Emergency responders asked people to avoid the area.

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According to Mounties, the following traffic detours have been implemented:

• eastbound traffic on Highway 55: diverted at 51 Street, redirecting through to 48 Avenue;
• westbound traffic on Highway 55: diverted at 48 Street, redirecting through 48 Avenue; and
• southbound traffic on Highway 2: diverted at 48 Avenue.

The town implemented a water restriction order at 11:02 a.m. as a result of firefighting efforts.

"Please avoid all non-essential water usage until the order is revoked," the town wrote alongside the order. "Thank you for your cooperation."

The town spray park has also been closed.

According to the Alberta Heritage Resources Management Information System, the hotel was built in 1913 after a fire destroyed the original hotel building, which was built in 1907.

Athabasca is about 150 kilometres north of Edmonton.