UPDATE: The evacuation order for the residents south of High Level will be lifted at noon today. They’ll be allowed to return home, but are asked to remain on “immediate alert” in case the situation changes due to the expected weather conditions. The fire is listed as under control.
An area south of High Level is also under an evacuation order due to an out of control fire at an OSB plant. Residents who live in the areas surrounding the Norbord yard, five kilometres south of the town, were told to leave immediately around 8 p.m. Wednesday night.
The fire is in the plant’s yard and is three hectares in size. 21 firefighters, six aircraft and airtankers are fighting it.
A reception centre has been set up in the Town of High Level, which is currently not threatened. Anyone having a hard time breathing should seek medical attention.