Some residents north of Highway 16 near Elk Island National Park have been ordered to evacuate due to an out-of-control grassfire that has spread to multiple structures in the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village.
The fire has also prompted the closure of Highway 16 in both directions between the entrance to Elk Island National Park and Range Road 194.
Fort Saskatchewan RCMP are asking the public to avoid the area and find alternate routes. It said the fire, which is located behind the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, has started to spread and is not considered under control.
Evacuations have begun for residents on Range Road 195, north of Highway 16. Fort Saskatchewan RCMP advise that anyone living in the area who is not yet affected by the evacuation, should prepare an evacuation kit should the fire spread further.
RCMP confirmed Friday night that the fire has spread to multiple Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village — an open-air museum depicting life of early settlers and Ukrainian culture. The village contains dozens of historic buildings. Fort Saskatchewan RCMP said the situation is evolving rapidly and the extent of the damages cannot yet be confirmed.
Jay Zaal, spokesperson from Lamont County, said the visitor centre has been impacted by the fire, which has now spread to the north side of Highway 16.
“Crews are working to contain the fire; high winds are creating challenges as it is too windy for air support,” Zaal told CBC by text message.
Elk Island National Park and neighbouring Lamont County are currently under a fire restriction.
Lamont County Emergency Services responded to the fire around 4 p.m. and called in mutual aid from Strathcona County, Zaal. said.
A spokesperson for Alberta Wildfire told CBC News the fire falls outside of the province’s forest protection area and the regional firefighting agencies have not requested additional help.