UPDATE #3: Cell phone service is back up and running in La CrĂȘte.
Update #2: An evacuation order has been issued by the chief and council of the Dene Tha’ First Nation. People must register with the Four Chiefs Complex in Bushe River before leaving.
NEW: EVACUATION ORDER issued by Chief and Council of the Dene Thaâ First Nation. Residents must register at the Four Chiefs Complex in Bushe River prior to evacuating. Route: east on Hwy 58 to 88 towards Fort Vermillion & La Crete. For more info, text/call 780-841-8400 #abfire https://t.co/576mnrbqDd
â Alberta Government (@YourAlberta) May 21, 2019
UPDATE: The fire has taken out cell service in La CrĂȘte. Landlines have not been affected and 911 can still be reached on them. First responders will be on duty at La CrĂȘte Fire and EMS stations for people who need help but do not have access to a landline.
Due to the current fire burning in High Level, people are being told to leave their homes for at least the next 72 hours. The town has issued a mandatory evacuation order as of 4 p.m. on May 20th.
People are being asked to lock all doors and windows and take small personal belongings with them including pets, identification, medications and cash. People should also make sure all fuel and gas appliances in the home are shut off and all hot water tanks are turned down if possible.
The evacuation will take place by zone starting with people in the yellow zone on the map above. The recommended routes are Highway 58 East and Highway 88 south. Evacuees are required to register at either the Slave Lake Legacy Centre or the High Prairie Sports Palace. People who can’t evacuate on their own will be taken to the Spirit of the North Community School.
The Chuckegg Creek fire, located approximately five kilometres south of the Town had burned approximately 69, 000 hectares as of May 19th. The fire remains classified as Out of Control. Alberta Wildfire has 64 firefighters, heavy equipment, along with air support from helicopters and air tankers working to contain this fire. They have also called in additional help and resources.