Update #3 – May 12, 2024 – 11:00 am
Last night, areas north and northeast of the wildfire experienced scattered showers, leading to a slight improvement in visibility. AB Forestry has deployed helicopters with buckets, actively identifying targets for air tankers. Despite challenging winds anticipated from the southwest over the next few days, clearer skies are expected, enhancing visibility for our firefighters on the ground and in the air.
Significant progress has been made with a dozer guard now established around much of the fire’s perimeter. Dozer guards on the Greenview side of the wildfire have been completed. Efforts continue in the north and northwest where steep terrain presents additional challenges. Overnight, a dedicated unit crew was active, and more firefighters have arrived today. This morning, operations are focused west of the Smoky River, where crews are collaborating with the municipality to set up agricultural fire guards.
We urge residents and citizens to avoid the area around ANY active wildfires. There have been reports of drones interfering with firefighting efforts this morning. It is illegal to fly drones near an active wildfire as it poses serious risks to both ground and aerial firefighting teams. During firefighting operations, the restricted airspace around a wildfire includes a radius of approximately 9.26 km (5 nautical miles) and up to an altitude of 3,000 feet above ground level.
The next update will be provided at approximately 11:00 am on Monday, May 13 unless an emergency update is required.
Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications from local authorities to receive timely updates about potential hazards or emergencies in your area. Knowledge is key to staying safe and prepared. Get Greenview’s Voyent Alert: https://mdgreenview.ab.ca/voyent-alert-for-greenview…/
