There are 137 personnel and 11 helicopters responding to wildfires in Wood Buffalo National Park today.
Last night around 2000h, Fire 7 crossed Highway 5 around kilometer 220. As a result, the highway was temporarily closed for the safety of the public due to fire behaviour and thick smoke. Fire personnel continue to work to prevent any further northward spread. There is no risk to people or communities at this time.
The northwestern edge of Fire 7 in the Pine Lake Complex is approximately 3 km from Highway 5, and 25 km from Fort Smith. There is no immediate risk to the Town of Fort Smith or surrounding areas from this wildfire.
Yesterday, significant growth occurred on the northwest finger of Fire 7 as a result of high, gusting winds from the southeast. This resulted in an overnight closure of Highway 5.Today, Highway 5 is open with speed reductions and traffic flaggers in place. Please use caution when moving through the area and respect speed reductions.
The Nyarling fire continues to be monitored by fire personnel who have set up structural protection equipment on nearby values and infrastructure. This fire remains approximately 9 km from Highway 5.
All equipment in the Davidson Lake Complex has been demobilised from this fire. Crews will continue to monitor values at risk adjacent to the fire and action as required.
