M.D. of Peace No. 135: Evacuations ordered including Peace River Correctional Centre
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Areas in the Municipal District of Peace 135 were told there was a state of emergency because of a fast-moving wildfire, around 3:37 p.m. on April 23. Two hours later residents were told to evacuate.
A fire along Shaftesbury Trail is out of control and approximately 4.5 square miles in size. Firefighters and emergency personnel are on scene.
Evacuation areas
- The area of M.D. Peace 135 south of Township Road 830 and north-northeast of Highway 684 and south of Peace River is under evacuation.
- The area east of Range Road 240 to Range Road 224 and from Township Road 832 is under evacuation.
- The Town of Grimshaw is not included in the order. A reception centre has been established at the Grimsahw Legion at 5011-49 Avenue. Evacuees are required to register in person by 9 p.m.or by calling the M.D. office at 780-338-3845.
The Reception Centre will reopen tomorrow at 8 am.
Road closures
Anyone travelling should be aware of road closures and cautions. Use Alberta’s 511 system to plan your trip if you’re travelling.
Currently, a wildfire on Highway 684, in both directions from Highway 740 to Peace River Correctional Centre is closed because of a wildfire.
Highway 744 has a road restriction because of construction. Speeds were reduced to 50 km/h.
“We extend our gratitude to the courageous firefighters, dedicated volunteers, government agencies, and neighbouring municipalities for their unwavering support. To our residents and fellow citizens, your offers for assistance and sharing updates are deeply appreciated. For ongoing information, please continue monitoring our Facebook page and website.”
The M.D. has approximately 1,700 residents. Nearby Peace River has more than 6,800 residents.
The Peace River Correctional Centre, housing approximately 260 inmates, was evacuated and inmates were brought to secure locations.
Resources for working on the fire include air support and ground crews from the M.D., Grimshaw, County of Northern Lights, Peace River, Town and Alberta Forestry and Parks.
M.D. of Peace 135 residents are advised to watch the MD social media pages and to sign up for emergency notification texting. The emergency texting will help ensure residents get up to date quickly.
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