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A large fire originating on a Canadian Forces Base in east-central Alberta has spread rapidly due to Saturday’s strong winds, according to the Municipal District of Wainwright.
The municipality said emergency responders are actively assessing the situation and “working to protect people, property and critical infrastructure” in the area. It added that multiple agencies are responding to the incident south of the town of Wainwright.
“Avoid the area and keep roads clear for emergency vehicles. Do not travel toward the incident or attempt to view it,” the municipality said in a social media post Saturday just after 5 p.m. MT.
In a news release just after 6 p.m., Acute Care Alberta said Emergency Health Services is on scene “and supporting care and transport related to an incident at CFB Wainwright.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said in a post on X at 6:15 p.m. that the province is “learning of a significant and tragic fire that is affecting many of our brave military personnel.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney also said in a social media post just after 6 p.m. that a “serious incident creating a major fire occurred at CFB Wainwright.”
“Our thoughts are with all the brave women and men affected,” Carney wrote. “We are working closely with the Government of Alberta and local authorities. Premier Smith and I are in close contact, as are our relevant ministers and officials.”
Wainwright has established an emergency co-ordination centre, the municipal district said in a 7 p.m. post on social media. It said multiple jurisdictions are actively responding, and residents should avoid visiting the Wainwright Health Centre unless there is “a critical medical need.”
“The fire south of Wainwright crossed the base fence earlier today and is being actively managed,” the municipality said.