Kettle River Complex Fire Update
The forecast for the next few days is seeing temperature highs of 28-31C and relative humidity low of 35-40 conditions will remain dry and hot. Wind conditions for Monday are expected to be easterly to southeasterly 15-20 km/h then picking up to 30-35 km/h this evening. A cold front will pass through the Kettle River Complex area around 6 pm. this evening with minimal rain from showers and thunderstorms expected.
LWF 136
LWF136 (Janvier Fire) is located approximately 15 km northwest of the community of Janvier. It is currently 500 ha in size and classified as OUT OF CONTROL. Resources committed to this wildfire include two heavy equipment groups, 77 firefighters and three Task Force Division Leaders. Yesterday we saw some fire activity on the west and east sides of the fire with some spread along the powerline corridor along the west flank. Crews made good progress on the dozer guards; dozer guard construction is ongoing. Last night, night-vision helicopters were able to do some bucketing. Today, crews will continue consolidating hose lines on established catguards, and heavy equipment will continue working on a new excursion to the south followed by crews with hose lines.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) has issued an evacuation alert for the hamlet of Janvier.
LWF 152
LFW152 (MEG Fire) was detected July 16. It is classified as OUT OF CONTROL at 406 ha. There are industrial facilities within a 10 km radius to the wildfires
LWF 164
LFW164 (Conklin Fire was detected July 17. It is located approximately 12km northeast of Conklin along Highway 881. It is classified as OUT OF CONTROL at 936 ha. Yesterday, two hack crews were able to assess for potential containment lines and water sources. The fire did not cross the MEG Energy egress or Highway 881.
Today, we will continue to monitor for growth and assess feasibility for implementing indirect/aerial ignition opportunities to tie into natural barriers to limit fire growth.
Alberta transportation may temporarily close Highway 881 due to variable smoke drift. Visit 511 Alberta for the most up-to-date information on highway closures. You can also visit Alberta Emergency Alert for the latest information.