Heat wave, wildfires hit northwest Alberta
Environment Canada issues heat warning for Mackenzie County as 14 new fires break out from lightning strike.
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A heat wave is sweeping northwestern Alberta as multiple wildfires break out across the region. Environment Canada issued a heat warning Wednesday morning for Mackenzie County — located about 750 kilometres northwest of Edmonton — with temperatures expected to reach 31 C.
The extreme heat has sparked a wave of new fire activity. Alberta Wildfire reported 14 new wildfire starts in Mackenzie County on Tuesday afternoon from a lightning storm, with five classified as out of control as of Wednesday. The largest is estimated at over 11 hectares. Several fires have already been extinguished.
Environment Canada meteorologist Julien Corriveau said the northern heat wave is being caused by an "abnormally large ridge of high pressure" also affecting the Northwest Territories and parts of Nunavut. "The heat will continue until, at least through the weekend. It doesn't look like it really lets up until maybe next week," he said.
Alberta Wildfire continues to monitor potential thunderstorms expected Wednesday night and Thursday afternoon near High Level. The town currently has a "very high" fire danger rating. High Level deputy fire chief Scott Smith urged residents to stay hydrated, check on neighbours, keep water sources near campfires, and report any dangerous fire activity.
