Wildfire prompts evacuation of thousands in Canada

TRENTON, Canada

Wildfires in Western Canada prompted thousands to flee their homes, while 66,000 were on standby to evacuate as a fast-moving blaze threatened another community Saturday.

A growing wildfire moved relentlessly toward Fort Nelson, British Columbia (B.C.), resulting in officials ordering more than 3,000 to leave their homes in Fort Nelson and nearby Fort Nelson First Nation.

Within five hours, the fire had grown to 8 square kilometers. (3 square miles) from a modest half square kilometer.

Tinder dry conditions and flames fanned by powerful winds caused the wildfire to spread and prompted the evacuation order, which was issued at 7.30 p.m. Pacific Time Friday.

“We want them to leave the community,” regional Mayor Rob Fraser told CBC News late Friday. “We want them to be safe.”

Meanwhile. in the neighboring province of Alberta, 66,000 residents of Fort McMurray were under an evacuation alert Friday due to an out-of-control wildfire.

Wood Buffalo Regional Fire Chief Jody Butz, who issued the Fort McMurray alert, told reporters the area is prepared to handle any emergency, having dealt with wildfires in previous years.

“From our experiences, we've continued to recognize that wildfires are the number one hazard in the region,” said Butz. “And it's clear our community is prepared and more responsive to that reality.”

B.C. officials said above average temperatures that were more like in late summer could cause wildfires to ignite over the weekend.

There are currently 121 wildfires active in B.C., according to the provincial government, and 52 fires burning in Alberta, CBC News reported.