Spreading Like Wildfire

Alberta blaze threatens neighbouring province in Canada.

18:10 09 May 2016

A huge wildfire raging in Alberta Canada is growing further and officials say it could spread to neighbouring Saskatchewan as hot, dry and windy conditions hamper efforts to tackle the blaze.

 

Officials say that it is not uncommon for such fires to go on for months.

 

Alberta Premier Rachel Notley said: "In no way is this fire under control.”

 

The flames, which now cover 700 sq miles, have caused the evacuation of 80,000 people from the city of Fort McMurray while thousands are still stuck to the north. Propelled by high winds to the northeast towards Saskatchewan, the fire is expected to reach the province by the end of Saturday while smoke from the blaze has already reached the province prompting the issuance of air quality statement.

 

Although there is a possibility of rain on Sunday and Monday, officials said that only sustained heavy rain can put out the fire.

 

Meanwhile, Nick Waddington from the Fort McMurray Fire Department recognised the efforts firefighters helping with the situation. He said: "We had one member stand at the end of his driveway, watch his house burn to the ground and put in an 18-hour shift.”