A wildfire in the Redwater Provincial Recreation Area has prompted a significant evacuation order as officials scramble to contain the blaze, which has now expanded to cover approximately 1,500 hectares (3,707 acres). The fire, traced to a malfunctioning all-terrain vehicle (ATV), began over the weekend and has raised alarms in the surrounding communities due to shifting winds and dry conditions.
On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, Sturgeon County officials confirmed that the wildfire was likely ignited by an electrical or mechanical failure of the ATV in a remote section of the park. As of Tuesday evening, the fire was reported to be 70 percent contained, but a small flare-up near the river has complicated suppression efforts.
The impacted area stretches from Range Road 205 to Victoria Trail and between Township Road 574 and Range Roads 203 and 205. An evacuation alert remains in effect for areas south of Township Road 580 and east of Range Road 212 to the North Saskatchewan River. Residents in these zones are urged to prepare for potential evacuation and to have a 72-hour emergency kit ready.
In response to the growing threat, Sturgeon County expanded its evacuation order, which now applies to residents on Range Roads 203-214 and between Township Roads 580-584. The original evacuation order affected those on Range Road 211 east to Range Road 203 and between Township Road 580 south to Township Road 573.
Evacuees are being directed to the reception center at Pembina Place in Redwater, approximately 65 kilometers northeast of Edmonton. Officials have advised residents to bring important documents and medications, as they may need to be away from their homes for at least three days.
At 9:10 p.m. on Tuesday, an additional evacuation order was issued for Thorhild County, affecting residents on Range Roads 203-211 and Township Roads 580-584. The county has declared a state of local emergency, and a reception center for evacuees is set up at Thorhild Community Hall.
Fire officials are on high alert due to the possibility of increased fire activity, with conditions expected to worsen because of the wind. Ground and air teams, supported by three helicopters and heavy equipment, are actively working to maintain containment of the fire.
"We are doing everything we can to keep the fire contained and protect the communities at risk," said a spokesperson from the provincial wildfire branch. "The safety of our residents is our top priority, and we are closely monitoring the situation as it develops."
In addition to the wildfire in Sturgeon County, separate evacuation orders have been issued in neighboring regions. Thorhild County has mandated evacuations for areas south of the hamlet of Radway, while Athabasca County has ordered evacuations for residents south of the village of Boyle. Both counties have declared states of local emergency, urging residents to prepare for potential evacuations.
In Athabasca County, evacuees are being directed to a reception center at Parkland Motels II in Lac La Biche, Alta. Officials in both counties are advising residents to pack essential items and prepare for a possible extended absence from their homes.
The current wildfire situation serves as a stark reminder of the risks posed by wildfires in Alberta, particularly during dry and windy conditions. Local authorities are urging residents to stay informed through official channels and to heed evacuation orders promptly.
As the situation evolves, Sturgeon County officials continue to monitor the fire's behavior closely. They are working in conjunction with the provincial wildfire branch to deploy additional resources as necessary to combat the blaze.
Residents are reminded to stay away from the affected areas and to follow any instructions provided by emergency services. With the potential for changing weather conditions, preparedness remains critical.
In light of the ongoing wildfire threat, community members are encouraged to check in on neighbors, especially those who may need assistance in evacuating or preparing for an emergency.
This report will be updated as new information becomes available. Residents are advised to stay tuned to local news and government announcements for the latest updates on the wildfire situation and evacuation orders.
As of now, no homes or buildings are currently threatened, but officials are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of residents. The collaborative efforts of ground crews, air support, and community preparedness will be vital in managing the fire's impact.
