The U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team is using heavy helicopter on the Boundary Wildfire when wind permits. Parks Canada / John Stoesser photo
During the overnight period, cooler temperatures and precipitation resulted in no fire growth.
Working on the ground under the direction of the U.S. Northern Rockies Type 1 Incident Management Team (IMT), the initial attack teams from Banff, Kootenay and Grasslands national parks will continue extinguishing any hot spots that may be present. The U.S. IMT and Parks Canada are coordinating efforts and are in constant communication.
The forecast is looking favourable with cooler temperatures and precipitation in the form of rain with the potential for snow in the coming days. With this trend towards cooler weather and an increase in precipitation, Fire Managers are confident that there will be no significant fire growth within Waterton Lakes National Park.
As of 10:00 a.m. on Friday September 14th, 2018, the Bertha Lake Trail, and Bertha Lake and Bertha Bay Backcountry Campgrounds will re-open. The Lakeshore Trail beyond Bertha Bay Backcountry Campground will remain closed.
Fire Information Update - Boundary Wildfire - August 31, 2018; 16:25
Parks Canada - Waterton Lakes National Park is open and ready to welcome visitors. Most recreational activities and tourism opportunities are available.
From a Parks Canada Information Update issued August 24, 2018
AREA CLOSURE:
As a result of local fires, all of Waterton Lakes National Park including all water bodies is closed to all traffic and travel until further notice, with the exception of:
Waterton townsite
Travel on Highways 5, 6, Chief Mountain Highway and the Entrance Road
Prince of Wales Hill
Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act: maximum penalty $25,000.
Parks Canada archaeological team on the road to discoveries
Chris Davis - The Kenow wildfire, as it became known, crossed over from the British Columbia border into Waterton Lakes National Park on September 11, 2017. 38,000 hectares were burned, including 19,303 hectares of Waterton, causing significant destruction of wildlife, vegetation, and infrastructure. Artifacts representing the last 1000 years or so of the area's human history have also been temporarily uncovered. An archaeological team is spending a year surveying, recording, and researching the new discoveries, racing the clock before new vegetation hides the sites again.
(C. Davis photos and video except where otherwise noted)
Fire Advisory Notices have been issued for Waterton Lakes National Park, Glennwood, and Hill Spring. This is in addition to notices recently issued for Crowsnest Pass, Cardston County, Longview, Calgary Forest Area, and other areas of the province. Visit albertafirebans.ca for the most current information.
Waterton Lakes National Park
Fires are only allowed in metal fire pits or boxes provided by Parks Canada. No random fires are allowed in the park.
How to safely enjoy a campfire in Waterton Lakes National Park:
Keep fires small. Fires must be contained within the designated metal fire boxes provided and be kept to a reasonable size.
Use firewood provided. Transporting wood from elsewhere may spread invasive insects and disease. Do not collect deadfall or cut branches for burning.
Fires must be attended at all times.
Completely extinguish campfires with water. Soak it, stir it, and soak it again until it is cool to the touch before leaving it.
Campers are required to purchase a fire permit before using fire pits in road-accessible campgrounds. Campfires are not permitted during quiet hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.).
Campfires are not allowed in some backcountry campgrounds. Check the backcountry camping information or ask at the park visitor centre before setting out on your hike.
Charcoal barbeques are allowed. Please dump cold ashes into a fire pit.
Do not throw cigarettes on the ground. Put them out and throw them in a bin.
Report any sign of wildfire to Parks Canada Dispatch: 780-852-6155 or call 911.
Village of Glenwood, Hill Spring
Due to a change in condition(s) within the County, we are currently implementing a Fire Advisory for all areas of the County. We are requesting that you use extreme caution while using the permit process. Permits are still being issued.
Joyce Sasse - Annora Brown would be so proud to learn that Parks Canada honoured her by naming their Waterton Park Board Room after her – and suitably installing large, framed prints of six of her landscape paintings.
Waterton Park had a major influence on her life. According to her autobiography Sketches from Life, it was here she found courage to work through hardship, see beauty and find hope.
Parks Canada has reopened over 50 kilometres of previously closed trails and three backcountry campgrounds in Waterton Lakes National Park
Safety guide for burned areas in Waterton Lakes National Park in 2018
Report all wildlife observations/encounters to 1-888-WARDENS (1-888-927-3367)
Waterton Lakes National Park - Waterton Lakes National Park is open and ready to welcome visitors in 2018. While some areas of the park were affected by the September 2017 Kenow Wildfire, Parks Canada is committed to providing fun and memorable visitor experiences in Waterton Lakes National Park in summer 2018.
Parks Canada - Waterton Lakes National Park is open to visitors. When planning a trip, we ask visitors to remember that the Kenow Wildfire of 2017 has impacted the park in a number of ways. There are many recreation opportunities for visitors to experience in Waterton Lakes National Park, however, some areas remain closed as a result of hazards. For a full list of what is available and information on recreational opportunities, we encourage visitors to check www.parkscanada.ca/waterton-open for up-to-date information.
Extreme ecological changes have taken place in Waterton Lakes National Park (Parks Canada photo)
Parks Canada today issued press releases outlining the available facilities and attractions at Waterton Lakes National Park for the 2018 tourism season. It is "committed to providing fun and memorable visitor experiences in Waterton Lakes National Park in 2018," but the management of the Park in 2018 "will be unprecedented and complex" in the aftermath of last fall's Kenow Fire. Visitors to the park are welcome to engage in numerous recreation opportunities, including "a full range of special events, volunteer activities, and interpretation programs this year. " Visitors are advised to not drink water from any source other than the townsite supply.
Don't drink the water
"Visitors should not drink water from any source other than the townsite supply. Personal water purification technologies such as handheld filters and chemical tablets are not adequate to ensure drinking water is safe after the effects of the Kenow Wildfire." Click here for more safety information.
Wildlife
Following the wildfire, animals may behave unpredictably, including entering the townsite in search of food. For your safety and the safety of the animals, never approach, feed or entice wildlife. Dispose of garbage only in bear-proof bins located throughout the townsite in order to avoid attracting wildlife. Report all wildlife observations / encounters by calling 1-888-WARDENS (1-888-927-3367).
Rock climbing and scrambling
The extreme temperatures that boulders and cliffs were exposed to during the wildfire have caused the rock surfaces to become brittle. This means that rocks and climbing areas that were once solid may now have increased rockfall hazard and insecure hand and foot holds. All rock climbing anchors and bolts need to be treated will extreme caution. Trees should no longer be considered as secure anchor options.
Open in 2018:
Entrance Road and adjacent facilities
Townsite
Waterton Lakes
Chief Mountain Highway
Red Rock Parkway - for non-motorized use (hiking and biking) from the Entrance Road to the Bellevue. "Visitors should exercise caution as operational vehicle traffic may be present on the road. Public access to this portion of the parkway may change depending on construction schedules."
Prairie Trail
Temporary Visitor Centre at the Lion’s Hall on Fountain Avenue (opening date tba).
"Visitor safety is a top priority for Parks Canada. As a result, many areas affected by the Kenow Wildfire in September 2017 will remain closed for summer 2018 due to hazards such as dangerous trees, slope instability, and damaged infrastructure.
The entire Akamina Parkway and the Red Rock Parkway from Bellevue Prairie Trail to Red Rock Canyon - along with associated recreation opportunities in these areas - will remain closed in 2018. It is too early to provide a timeline for when these areas will re-open."
This map shows what is available to visitors in Waterton Lakes National Park in 2018, including open and closed trails, roads and facilities. Click here for a larger version.
Kenow Fire aftermath
The Kenow Fire affected 38% of the park and 50% of Waterton Lakes National Park vegetation last fall.
Over 30 assets were lost or significantly impacted, including both the Red Rock and Akamina Parkways, and a considerable portion of the trail network.
As conditions dry out this summer, there will be loose ash and dirt in the park. Strong winds will transport this ash and dirt and could cause air quality and visibility issues.
In fire-affected areas, reduced shade due to the burning of the forest canopy will make hiking and walking on hot and sunny days more strenuous.
Due to the lack of a canopy, hiking trails will become slicker in rainy weather.
Rock that was once held in place by vegetation is now loose and more unstable. Take care when travelling over steep slopes and rocky areas and reduce your overhead hazard to steep slopes and cliffs where fallen trees or loose rocks may roll downhill. Increased rock or debris fall hazard can be expected during rainy or windy weather. Also, watch out for hazards from damaged or destroyed infrastructure like steel, nails and glass.
Any trails that are open have been fully assessed for hazard trees and the risks appropriately mitigated. Travel off trail carries increased risk of injury from falling trees. Travel quickly and spread your group out to reduce exposure time. Avoid burnt forests during windy conditions with rain or snow.
A complete understanding of the impact of this wildfire on the park’s ecology will take many years to assess.
Parks Canada will be assessing the extent of the damage and developing plans for the future.
The Kenow wildfire has removed canopy cover in the park which will provide an opportunity for smaller, ground-based plants to establish. Fire kick-starts regeneration by providing ideal growing conditions. Many ecosystems have evolved with fire and depend on it for renewal. A recent burn may seem dead but many forms of life survive, giving rise to a new forest.
Planning to develop a long-term recovery approach for Waterton is underway. Parks Canada says it is "working to restore the National Park experience in a manner that is safe for our many hundreds of thousands of annual visitors and fully consistent with the ecological objectives for the park."
To report park offences, wildlife concerns or visitor safety issues phone: 1-888-WARDENS (1-888-927-3367). Toll free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Parks Canada - Across the country, Parks Canada and Indigenous peoples are partners in conserving, restoring, and presenting Canada's natural and cultural heritage. On April 20 Parks Canada was honoured to host a traditional Blackfoot blessing ceremony by Kainai and Piikani First Nations in Waterton Lakes National Park.
The blessing ceremony is a traditional event and a way to give thanks for the past, present, and future.
Parks Canada concept drawings of planned new Waerton Lakes National Park visitor centre
Chris Davis - On January 12, 2018 Parks Canada unveiled the design concept for a new visitor centre in Waterton Lakes National Park. According to Parks Canada, three design option were considered before design option three (pictured above), called The Town Plaza, was selected "following public consultations, a community open house, and the careful review and consideration of three design options." The new centre will be located in the Waterton Townsite, a location which has been the subject of considerable controversy for Waterton residents.
Parks Canada - Parks Canada is committed to providing high-quality visitor experiences in Waterton Lakes National Park. We continue to work as quickly as possible to re-open areas and facilities given the exceptional circumstances resulting from the Kenow wildfire. Following initial safety assessments and mitigations, Parks Canada has reopened additional areas in Waterton Lakes National Park.
Press release - The Member of Parliament for Foothills, Alberta, John Barlow, issued the following statement in response to the Environment Minister’s decision on the new location for the Waterton Lakes National Park’s visitor center:
“I’m pleased to hear the government is following through on a commitment the previous Conservative government made in July 2015 on the largest infrastructure plan in the history of Parks Canada for projects across Waterton Lakes National Park, including a new visitor center. When complete the new center will welcome more than 400,000 visitors annually.
The Evacuation Order issued on September 8 for Waterton Lakes National Park has been rescinded. The Waterton townsite is no longer at risk from the Kenow fire On September 19 a phased re-entry was effected for some residents, leaseholders, and business owners. Yesterday, September 20, all residents, leaseholders, business owners as well as members of the public were allowed to re-enter the park. Services remain significantly reduced. At this time, only the entrance road, Chief Mountain Highway and the community of Waterton are open. All other roads and areas in the park remain closed for safety reasons. Due to the high intensity of the fire, there are a large number of danger trees, rock falls, and other hazards that remain throughout the park. The Kenow wildfire remains active in certain areas and suppression efforts continue. Personnel from various specialized fields are working to reduce hazards such as danger trees, and to assess the state of roadways and other infrastructure. The fire is now classified as being held.
The park is not open for camping. Camping will not return this season. The townsite loop walking trail is open, but other outlying trails remain closed.
As of September 20, according to Alberta Wildfire, the Fire Danger Rating is Low across the province, and Moderate in the northern boreal and Southern Slopes. According to a Calgary Forest Area Wildfire Update issued September 19, the Forest Area Closure for the Calgary Forest Area has been lifted, but a Fire Ban, OHV prohibition and advisory remains in effect. A Fire Ban remains in effect for the Calgary Forest Area (CFA) section of the Forest Protection Area (FPA) south of highway 532. All existing Fire Permits are suspended. No new Fire Permits will be issued. Open fires in campgrounds, the backcountry or random camping areas are NOT permitted. Charcoal briquettes, turkey fryers, tiki torches, fireworks, and exploding targets are NOT permitted. Portable propane fire pits, Gas or propane stoves, barbecues and heaters (catalytic/infrared) ARE permitted. The Fire Ban will remain in effect until conditions improve. Click here for the most current information.
A media tour (see video above) was conducted on September 20, with briefings from Unified Command members including Parks Canada Media Relations Chief Natalie Fay, Parks Canada Incident Commander Jed Cochrane, and Alberta Agriculture and Forestry Wildfire Operations Officer Rick Moore.
^ Video: On Tuesday evening September 12 a press conference/update was held at the Town of Pincher Creek council chambers about the wildfire situation. Participants included Waterton Lakes National Park Superintendent Ifan Thomas, Pincher Creek Emergency Services Chief Dave Cox, M.D. of Pincher Creek Reeve Brian Hammond, Town of Pincher Creek Mayor Don Anderberg, Cardson County Reeve Jim Bester, Alberta RCMP Information Officer Curtis Peters, Alberta Agriculture and Forestry Incident Commander Scott Elliot, and Alberta Emergency Management Agency Managing Director Shane Schreiber, and several others who contributed as well.
Shell Canada shuts some gas operations due to Alberta wildfire (external link)
Offer of help: An offer to assist with livestock and other concerns in the event of further evacuations has been extended by a group located north of Castor Alberta. Call 780-385-1817 for more information.
Alberta Government situation update at 9:30 pm:
The Kenow wildfire currently covers approximately 33,000 hectares in Alberta, with a total size of approximately 42,000 hectares. A mandatory evacuation order was issued on Sept. 11 at 10:15 p.m. for a section of the Municipal District of Pincher Creek from Highway 505 South to Waterton Lakes National Park and Castle Mountain Resort. An estimated 150 residences have been affected. A reception centre has been set up at the Vertical Church at 1200 Ken Thornton Blvd. in Pincher Creek. Residents leaving their community should go to the reception centre or call 403-904-8016 to register.
A mandatory evacuation was issued on Sept. 11 at 11:44 p.m. for the area of Cardston County between Waterton Lakes National Park and Hwy 800 from the U.S. border north to Twp Rd 40. More than 50 homes have been affected. A reception centre is located at 1050 Main Street in the Town of Cardston. Residents who are leaving and need accommodation should call 403-653-4977.
A mandatory evacuation was issued on Sept. 12 for areas of the Blood Tribe in Zone 1, including Fish Creek, St. Paul’s area extending north to Russell and Many Fingers residences. An evacuation advisory has been issued for Zone 3, including north of Russell and Many Fingers residences extending to Lavern and little Chicago area. An estimated 180 people have been affected. A reception centre has been set up in the Standoff multipurpose building and residents are asked to register at the multipurpose building even if they do not intend to stay there.
Approximately 500 people are under a mandatory evacuation order from their homes in Waterton townsite, parts of Cardston Country, parts of the MD of Pincher Creek and parts of the Blood Reserve.
In the town of Waterton, roughly 60 structural firefighters from neighbouring municipalities, including the City of Calgary, are working to protect the structures within the perimeter of the town. Unfortunately structures outside the perimeter have been lost, including the Visitor Centre and several out buildings.
Crews are working hard to protect houses and other structures there and our latest information is that they have been successful.
Firefighters working within Waterton were relieved Tuesday, Sept. 12 by a second team coming in and will continue their work with 17 fire trucks on site.
Within the park itself, there are roughly 135 firefighters, nine Alberta air tankers and 14 helicopters.
Alberta Forestry has an additional 125 firefighters and 23 helicopters on standby, waiting for direction from the incident command team.
The Kenow wildfire has spread outside Waterton Lakes National Park into Cardston County and the Municipal District of Pincher Creek.
High winds, high temperatures and low humidity continue and intense fire behaviour is anticipated.
The Office of the Fire Commissioner coordinated additional resources that were brought in Tues. Sept. 12 to replenish and supplement firefighting efforts from Coalhurst, Didsbury, Milk River, Olds, Ponoka and fire protection companies.
Other information from this update was the same as reported earlier in this thread.
Excerpts from September 12 evening press conference in Pincher Creek:
Regarding Glenwood and Hillspring - "Currently the two villages are not in the evacuation zone, and we can't tell till tomorrow where the wind's taking it, but we're very hopeful... Tomorrow morning, I can give you a better answer than that. We are not out of the woods yet." - Cardston County Reeve Jim Bester
I want to appeal to the citizens of our county, and our neighbouring counties and MDs here... We ask you to cooperate with us. Stay out of the (way). No more rubbernecking. Stay out of the areas that can cause more harm to other people. - Cardston County Reeve Jim Bester
We don't know just exactly how it's going to end yet, but it's going to end okay." - Cardston County Reeve Jim Bester
"On September 11, the Kenow wildfire demonstrated extraordinary fire behaviour. The fire advanced significantly throughout the night, which presented limited options for fire management. Unified Command was well prepared for the forecasted fire behaviour throughout the night. Structural fire crews remained in the townsite to protect the facilities. Extensive fire protection measures were effective in safeguarding the majority of infrastructure located in the community, and the Prince of Wales Hotel."
"Every indication is that in the townsite, the townsite is intact." - Waterton Lakes National Park Superintendent Ifan Thomas
"The fire is out of control. It is still classified as out of control, and it will probably remain out of control for some time, until we see significant change in the fire behaviour." - Government of Alberta Wildfire Information Officer Leslie Lozinski
"The fire was more aggressive Monday September 11 due to high winds, low relative humidity, and warmer temperatures. "We didn't experience the aggressive fire behavior that we experienced yesterday. What's going to happen overnight, we don't know. But going into it, it's a little bit calmer than it was last night, and we hope it's going to stay that way, overnight." - Government of Alberta Wildfire Information Officer Leslie Lozinski
Update from Parks Canada issued at 7:36 this evening:
Please see the (above) updated map of the Kenow Wildfire. There have been no significant development to report in addition to the information provided today. At this time, the majority of the townsite appears to be intact. An update will follow tomorrow.
Parks Canada understands that this is a very difficult situation and our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the fire. The safety of residents, staff and fire crews and the protection of infrastructure in the community of Waterton are Parks Canada's priorities.
^ Video of this afternoon's press conference at the MD of Pincher Creek No. 9 administration building with Reeve Brian Hammond, Mayor Don Anderberg, and various other officials and representatives.
Statement from Town of Pincher Creek Mayor Don Anderberg, September 12, 2017, 4:22 pm - The Town of Pincher Creek is NOT in a state of local emergency. Our neighbors the Municipality (MD) of Pincher Creek #9 and Waterton have declared a state of local emergency. The Town of Pincher Creek are part of a joint emergency management agency and have provided personnel to both the Emergency Operations Centre and the Reception Centre. The Town of Pincher Creek will actively continue to participate as needed.
Due to the fluid nature of the wildfire event the Town of Pincher Creek and the Emergency Management Agency have actively been working on an evacuation plan. This plan would impact Town of Pincher Creek residents as well as those who have been displaced from the MD of Pincher Creek and Waterton.
We will continue to monitor the situation. At this time, the Town of Pincher Creek is not in immediate danger. If circumstances dictate, we may have to declare a state of local emergency. September 12 evening updates:
Recommendations for horse owners preparing for possibility of evacuation (click here).
While the generosity of Albertans is appreciated, please refrain from making Alberta Fire donations until requested by local municipalities. - Government of Alberta
Update: The Nanton Fire Dept. has had an overwhelming response to their request for donations of water, Gatorade, non-perishable snacks for Firefighters responding to the Kenow fire. They're fully stocked and ready to go and no more donations are requested.
Government of Alberta update (issued at 3:39 pm):
The Blood Tribe, Cardston County and Municipal District of Pincher Creek have declared local states of emergency in response to southern Alberta wildfire conditions.
Overnight the fire grew by 50 per cent to roughly 20,000 hectares. A mandatory evacuation was issued on Sept. 11 at 10:15 p.m. for a section of the Municipal District of Pincher Creek from South Highway 505 to Waterton Lakes National Park and Castle Mountain Resort. An estimated 150 residences have been affected.
A reception centre has been set up at the Vertical Church at 1200 Ken Thornton Blvd. in Pincher Creek. Residents evacuating should go to the reception centre or call 403-904-8016 to register.'
A mandatory evacuation was issued on Sept. 11 at 11:44 p.m. for the area of Cardston County between Waterton Lakes National Park and Hwy 800 from the U.S. border north to Twp Rd 40. More than 50 homes have been affected. Residents who are leaving and need accommodation should call 403-653-4977.
A mandatory evacuation was issued on Sept. 12 for areas of the Blood Tribe in Zone 1, including Fish Creek, St. Paul’s area extending north to Russell and Many Fingers residences. An evacuation advisory has been issued for Zone 3, including north of Russell and Many Fingers residences extending to Lavern and little Chicago area. An estimated 180 people have been affected. A reception centre has been set up in the Standoff multipurpose building, and residents are asked to register at the multipurpose building even if they do not intend to stay there.
Approximately 500 people are under a mandatory evacuation order from their homes in Waterton townsite, parts of Cardston Country, parts of the MD of Pincher Creek and parts of the Blood Reserve.
In the town of Waterton, roughly 60 structural firefighters from neighbouring municipalities, including the City of Calgary, are working to protect the structures within the perimeter of the town. Unfortunately structures outside the perimeter have been lost, including the Visitor Centre and several out buildings.
Crews are working hard to protect houses and other structures there and our latest information is that they have been successful.
Firefighters working within Waterton will be relieved today by a second team coming in and will continue their work with 17 fire trucks on site.
Within the park itself, there are roughly 135 firefighters, nine Alberta airtankers and 14 helicopters.
Alberta Forestry has an additional 125 firefighters and 23 helicopters on standby, waiting for direction from the incident command team.
The Kenow wildfire has spread outside Waterton Lakes National Park into Cardston County and the Municipal District of Pincher Creek.
High winds, high temperatures and low humidity are forecast for Tuesday, Sept. 12, and intense fire behaviour continues to be anticipated.
Structural protection units and resources are in place in the Waterton townsite and have worked through the night providing protection.
The Office of the Fire Commissioner is coordinating additional resources to be brought in today to replenish and supplement firefighting efforts from Coalhurst, Didsbury, Milk River, Olds, Ponoka and fire protection companies.
Payne Lake Provincial Recreation Area, 25 km west of Cardston, has been closed (new). A complete list of park closures is available at www.emergency.alberta.ca.
The following highways are closed to the public due to the current wildfire situation:
Highway 5 east of Waterton Lakes National Park to west of Cardston
Highway 6 north of Waterton Lakes National Park to Twin Butte
The following highways within Waterton Lakes National Park are closed to the public due to the current wildfire situation:
Highway 5
Highway 6
Chief Mountain border crossing
The following highways are closed to the public, with the exception of permit holders, due to the current wildfire situation:
Highway 532, west of Highway 22
Highway 520, east of Highway 22 for approximately 12 km
Highway 774, from Highway 507 to Castle Provincial Park
Check 511 Alberta for up-to-date travel information.
Map of estimated extent of wildfire at 3:30 am this morning.
Afternoon updates:
Exhibition Park Lethbridge South Pioneer Park is open and available to help MD of Pincher Creek #9, Blood Indian Reserve No. 148, and Cardston County emergency evacuees looking for free RV parking. Free power and water provided. Grass areas available. Animals welcome, please bring corral. To reserve space please contact Bridget Mearns 403-393-3344. Click here for more information.
All staff and residents have safely been evacuated from Castle Mountain Resort. - Castle Mountain Resort
Parks Canada update issued at 11:30 am:
The Kenow Fire firmly established itself in Waterton Lakes National Park yesterday afternoon. Adjacent municipalities were alerted that the fire was moving. The wildfire demonstrated extreme fire behaviour for many hours due to high winds and critically dry fuels.
Burning intensified and the fire moved northeast down the Cameron Valley along the Akamina Parkway. Later in the evening, fire became visible from the townsite and then on the north side of Crandell Mountain. The fire began to move north at a high rate of spread through the grasslands along the park’s Entrance Road.
At this time, the majority of the townsite appears to be intact. Extensive fire protection measures were effective in safeguarding the majority of infrastructure and facilities within the community and at the Prince of Wales hotel. Firefighters worked tirelessly throughout the night to extinguish spot fires, monitor sprinkler protection, and protect facilities. High volume pumps and sprinkler systems, in combination with planning and fuel management done in previous years, ensured the townsite perimetre held. We expect extremely dry conditions will influence fire behaviour throughout the burning period today. Additional resources have been dispatched to assist. We are expecting a downturn in weather over the next 24 hours.
Overnight, the fire moved north out of the park and into adjacent lands. Affected municipalities and local fire departments are managing those fires outside of the national park and forest protection area. Local evacuation orders are in effect. Parks Canada staff assisted RCMP with the evacuation of residents adjacent to the park.
The wildfire is still affecting many back-country and front-country areas in the park, including the Cameron Valley, the Crandell Mountain area, the Blakiston Valley and grasslands in the north of the park. Elsewhere in the park infrastructure has been compromised. The unified team is assessing conditions on the ground today and will provide updated information as soon as possible.
The fire crossed into the Forest Protection Area in the Castle drainage area and is moving upslope and not towards values at risk at this time. Airtankers and helicopters are working on this area of the fire, supported by heavy equipment group that is establishing predetermined containment lines to act as fire breaks.
Parks Canada understands that this is a very difficult situation and our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the fire. The safety of residents, staff and fire crews and the protection of infrastructure in the community of Waterton are Parks Canada's priorities.
Earlier updates:
9:12 am:The TOWN of Pincher Creek is NOT on evacuation notice, evacuation notices at this time are for the MD of Pincher Creek only.
8:14 am: Fortis Alberta reports "We have some customers out in southern Alberta due to the fires. Our crews will re-enter when the fire subsides and it is safe." If you see a downed power line, stay at least 10 metres away and call Fortis at 310-WIRE.
Castle Mountain area: A Mandatory Evacuation Notice is being issued to the residents south of Highway 505 AND Castle Mountain Resort Residents of this area should leave the area.A reception center has been activated at the Vertical Church, located at 1200 Ken Thornton Blvd. in the town of Pincher Creek. Residents should register at the reception center or call 403-904-8016.
MD of Pincher Creek residents South Highway 505 to Waterton Park and Castle Mountain Resort have been ordered to evacuate. A State of Local Emergency has been issued for the entire MD. A reception center has been activated at the Vertical Church, located at 1200 Ken Thornton Blvd. Residents should register at the reception center or call 403-904-8016. Approximately 150 residences were evacuated. 115 residents have registered at the reception center, and 40 residents registered by phone.
At 4:20 am the MD of Pincher Creek said RCMP has closed Highway 6 south from Highway 505 and were securing the area. At that time the fire was burning within Township 2, Range 29 and was heading NE along the MD boundary. The response includes 11 personnel, 2 engines, 1 tender and a command unit, according to the MD's 4:20 am report. Pincher Creek Emergency Services is continuing to assess the situation and has unified command with Alberta Agricultural and Forestry.
The Pincher Creek Humane Society (PCHS)/SPCA is supplying the evacuation centre with kennels,blankets etc. and is establishing a list of temporary foster homes and also a temporary facility to house animals. Please contact 403-632-9760 for assistance. They are asking for additional kennels that can be donated or loaned to PCHS for the duration of the situation. The MD of Pincher Creek is making arrangements with Country Vets and the Humane Society to take small pets.
Cardston County declared a State of Local Emergency and ordered the evacuation of all residents of all areas between Waterton Park and Range Road 281 (Highway 800) from the U.S border north to Township Road 40. The order was issued at 11:44 pm, September 11. An Evaluation Centre is located at the Town of Cardston Civic Center (67 - 3rd Ave West).
Blood Reserve Zone 1 was ordered evacuated at 4:57 am today, September 12. The evacuation area includes the Fish Creek, St. Paul apartments north to Russell, and Many Fingers homes. Residents in Zone 3 (north of Russell, Many Fingers residences extending to Lavern and little Chicago area) should prepare to evacuate on short notice. Evacuees are directed to go to the Standoff multipurpose building and register. Contact the Blood Tribe Police if you have transportation concerns.
Chris Davis - The Municipal District of Pincher Creek No. 9 hosted a community meeting at Twin Butte Hall yesterday evening, September 8. All members of the MD council were in attendance, as was Cardston County Reeve Jim Bester. MD CAO Wendy Kay moderated the event, which included statements by a number of first responders and wildfire experts, Pincher Creek Emergency Services Chief Dave Cox, Shell Waterton Community Liaison Kristen Schmidt, and RCMP members. That was followed by a lengthy Q&A session with concerned citizens. The hall was packed, with over 130 people in attendance, based on a rough estimate. Earlier in the day a mandatory evacuation of Waterton Lakes National Park was effected.
The MD of Pincher Creek will be hosting a similar community meeting at Coalfields School in Beaver Mines on Monday, September 11, starting at 7:00 pm.
While the meeting was underway Parks Canada also announced that with the help of the RCMP all residents and non-essential personnel have been evacuated from the park, and the Waterton townsite has been secured. Weather conditions are expected to increase fire behaviour over the weekend, triggering the conditions previously established for evacuating residents and tourists from the park. At the time of the Parks Canada press release the fire was estimated to have grown to approximately 7,800 hectares in size.
According to a Government of Alberta press release, "The fire hazard across much of southern Alberta is extreme. A fire weather advisory for southern Alberta has been issued. If a wildfire does occur, conditions may cause rapid spread, making it difficult for firefighters to contain the wildfire quickly. Agriculture and Forestry has 764 firefighters, 104 helicopters, 75 pieces of heavy equipment, and 16 air tankers available to respond to wildfires across the province." According to Parks Canada, current or incoming resources at Waterton Lakes National park include "six fire crews, seven helicopters, a National Incident Management team, high volume pumps, hoses and sprinkler kits and a specialized structural fire protection team. Additional resources are on call if needed." According to a City of Calgary press release issued yesterday, "In addition to deploying an advance party to coordinate with Parks Canada personnel, Calgary Fire Department is also deploying approximately 16 members, two mechanics and three apparatus: two aerials and a sterling engine."
Fire bans are still in effect for the Town of Pincher Creek, Piikani Nation, the M.D. of Pincher Creek No. 9, Hill Spring, Glenwood, Cardston, County of Cardston, Fort Macleod, and Crowsnest Pass.
Forest Area Closure map (Alberta Government)
Forestry area closures are still in effect for the Calgary Forest Area, south of Highway 532 to the US border and west to the BC border, and Alberta Fire Control Zones 1, 2, and 3. Highway 532 is just north of Chain Lakes and intersects with Highway 22. Highway 22 and Highway 3 remain open for traffic. A Fire Ban and OHV Restriction remain in effect for the rest of the Calgary Forest Area. The Forest Area Closure will remain in effect until conditions improve.
If you're found to be carrying on any unauthorized activity or operating any equipment within the forest closure area you may be subject to a fine of $287 to $575. If you're found responsible for interfering with wildfire operations you face a mandatory court appearance.
Castle Wildland Provincial Park remains closed.
All evacuees are asked to register at the Reception and Evacuation Centre located at Pincher Creek's Vertical Church (1200 Ken Thornton Blvd., located just south of Co-op and Vista Village), even if you do not require assistance. Registering will provide a record that you were evacuated and enable authorities to contact you with any new information. You can register by email to mdinfo@mdpinchercreek.ab.ca (put in subject line: "Evac Registration") or by phoning 403-904-0021. Please provide name, number in party and contact phone number. A few evacuees took shelter in the church last night.
Wildfire Alberta Fire Weather Index for September 8, 2017
Alberta Fire Behaviour Advisory
Issued September 8, 2017 for September 9, 2017 by Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, Wildfire Management Branch, Forestry Division
The Calgary Forest Area, and in particular, the Crow region south of Calgary will experience strong winds again today as a second cold front passage from the one yesterday followed by an approaching upper trough moves across the Province. Winds of 50 km/hr sustained with gusts to 70 km/hr are forecast. These winds coupled with expected crossover conditions and the current FWI values in the Crow region will create very high ISI values again for the Calgary Forest Area.
Very easy burning conditions are prevalent all across the Calgary Forest area as an extended lack of precipitation and warm dry weather have elevated all fire weather indices to extreme, and in some cases, record setting levels. Smoke from forest fires elsewhere has been shading the area for several days causing a reduction in temperatures and increase in observed humidity. This is an artificial cap on true fire behaviour potential and poses the danger that once the smoke moves off, the underlying forest fire potential is quickly exposed. The fire danger in the Calgary Forest Area remains at extreme until actual rain is received in amounts to significantly lower the Duff Moisture Code and Drought Code and in turn, the derivative Build Up Index. Smoky days or days with higher humidity have the effect of supressing fire behaviour, but this is a short-lived cap on fire behaviour potential, one that can lift quickly with small changes in wind or atmospheric stability. When the conditions that cause the smoke or humidity increase wear off, fire behaviour can change quickly, often within a single burning period. This can create a significant safety risk to ground personell who may not be aware of the changing conditions or associated fire potential. The Calgary Forest Area, and in particular, the Crow region of that Forest Area remain under the threat of fast moving, very intense forest fire with moderate to long-range spot fire development.
The forecasted winds hold the potential to cause very intense, fast-moving forest fire, especially under these current extremely dry fire weather index levels. Conditions can change very quickly and safety awareness is needed at all times.
Elsewhere in the Province, precipitiation and higher humidities have brought fire danger relief to most locations. High Drought Codes still persist across most of northern Alberta but Duff Moisture Code and Fine Fuel Moisture Code relief will moderate fire occurrence and fire behaviour.
Parks Canada - Parks Canada is actively managing parts of the Kenow Fire that have the potential to impact Waterton Lakes National Park. The fire is primarily in British Columbia but has ignited spot fires in the park at the northwestern boundary near Sage Pass. Pursuant to Section 36(1) of the National Parks General Regulations of the Canada National Parks Act an Evacuation Order has been issued by order of the Superintendent due to a temporary danger to persons caused by the ongoing wildfire in the park. Members of the RCMP and Parks Canada staff will be expediting this action. Persons deemed essential to the firefighting operation are exempt from this order.
