Fires in northern Alberta have prompted evacuations of workers from oilsands sites. MEG Corp announced Tuesday evening it is evacuating non-essential personnel from its Christina Lake oilsands site. Imperial Oil Ltd. confirmed Wednesday it is reducing non-essential workers at its Kearl oilsands mine. Both companies stated they have not been directly impacted by the fires yet and are taking precautionary measures.
Both sites are situated less than 200 kilometers from Fort McMurray. The fires and associated threats have caused Canadian oil prices to rise, with Western Canada Select heavy crude increasing by $1.73, or 2.6 percent, on Tuesday.
British Columbia
In British Columbia, an evacuation order has been issued for a valley approximately 70 kilometers from Kamloops. Fire officials are preparing for challenging conditions over the next 72 hours, with more than 200 active wildfires reported as of Wednesday morning, over 60 of which ignited within the last 24 hours.
Northern B.C. is anticipating significant lightning activity today, which is a primary concern as it often sparks new fires.
Evacuation payments from provincial government
Seven days ago, wildfires forced hundreds of residents from Garden River to evacuate their homes. They are now eligible to apply for emergency payments from the provincial government, with just under 1,000 residents qualifying. The payments are one-time, providing $1,250 per adult and $500 per child to assist with immediate housing and essential needs.
