A wildfire 6 km west of Mercoal, Alberta, remains out of control.

Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment continue to respond to wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb, AB.

Residents in the area are reminded to be prepared in case of an emergency evacuation order. There is no current threat to Hinton.

“Gather supplies, important documents, medication, food, water, and pet supplies for at least three days,” an Alberta Wildfire Alert reads. “Make sure you have enough fuel in your vehicle. Make plans if you need evacuation transportation assistance due to mobility or other transportation needs.” 

Mercoal is a former coal town, approxmiately 50 km south of Hinton. Only a small number of summer residences remain. Robb’s population is 144, according to Statistics Canada’s 2021 census.

On Tuesday, May 27, Yellowhead County officials said weather for the next few days is forecast to be hotter and drier, a change which could lead to more favourable conditions for wildfire behaviour. 

“Winds are forecasted to come from the west, possibly moving any fire activity towards the east,” the update said.

Firefighters have determined that the size of the wildfire is approximately 284 hectares.

Yellowhead County Fire Department firefighters have been setting up sprinkler protection units in Mercoal and Robb.

“Yellowhead County is preparing for potential changes in wildfire activity that could impact Mercoal and Robb,” the update said. “They’ll be searching for and extinguishing hotspots. Airtankers are available if required.”

Additional emergency preparedness information can be found at https://yhcounty.ca/living-here/emergency-preparedness/ and regular updates are available via Yellowhead County’s Facebook page and Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update

Jasper Local staff // info@thejasperlocal.com