Cool weather, rain to aid in fight against fire threatening Fort McMurray

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Cooler temperatures and calmer winds have helped subdue the wildfire threatening Fort McMurray, a relief to firefighters bracing for a prolonged battle with the flames.

Four neighbourhoods on the southwest edge of the oilsands hub remain evacuated as the fire continues to burn mere kilometres from the community. 

The order to leave came Tuesday as the fire nearly doubled in size, chasing 6,600 people out of their homes.

The fire continues to burn out of control along the south side of the Athabasca River valley, less than six kilometres from the outskirts of the community.

Alberta Wildfire spokesperson Christie Tucker said Thursday the fire threatening Fort McMurray didn't grow overnight but moved slightly north toward the Athabasca River.

A new scan of the fire has determined that it has burned 19,820 hectares, slightly fewer than had been assessed previously, Tucker said. Officials said the smaller figure doesn't mean the fire is shrinking but reflects a more accurate measurement following new aerial scans of the area.

She said weather conditions should aid in the firefighting effort.

"Winds from the east and rain showers are expected," Tucker said. "It will give firefighters a chance to make further progress containing the fire." 

Tucker said the fire remains 5.5 km from the municipal landfill on the outskirts of Fort McMurray and less than five km from the intersection of Highway 63 and Highway 881, the only roads leading south.

Tucker said the fire remains active and the risk across much of the province remains extreme.

She urged vigilance, asking Albertans to do all they can to prevent new fires from sparking, especially as many enjoy the outdoors over the long weekend. 

"Even if there's a little rain on the ground, let's not forget that we have been in a drought situation here in this province for a year or more," Tucker told reporters Thursday. "There are areas in the north of the province that have long term, dried-out fuels.

"A little bit of rain does not mean that there is a zero chance of starting a wildfire."