Evacuation order lifted, but crews remain on scene battling hotspots
Hours after a fast-moving wildfire forced evacuations and shut down a major stretch of Highway 16, Fort Saskatchewan RCMP have confirmed that the fire is now under control.
The evacuation order for residents along Range Road 195, north of Highway 16, has officially been lifted. Highway 16 has also reopened between the entrance to Elk Island National Park and Range Road 194, restoring a key transportation route in the region.
While the immediate danger has passed, emergency crews remain active in the area as they continue to extinguish remaining hotspots. Authorities are urging the public to remain cautious and to avoid any activities that might interfere with firefighting efforts or reignite the blaze.
The wildfire, which broke out in the afternoon of April 18 behind the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, spread quickly and damaged structures at the historic site. The full extent of the damage has not yet been confirmed.
Residents and travellers are advised to remain alert for any further updates and to obey any posted signage or directions from officials still operating in the area.
