
Wildfires near Ponoka and Drayton Valley, Alta. force more evacuations
CTV
Alberta's busy wildfire week continued Wednesday evening when some rural residents near the towns of Ponoka and Drayton Valley were forced out of their homes.
Alberta's busy wildfire week continued Wednesday evening when some rural residents near the towns of Ponoka and Drayton Valley were forced out of their homes.
The Ponoka fire was burning about eight kilometers northwest of the town near Highway 795 and Township Road 433, according to an Alberta Emergency Management alert issued at 4:46 p.m.
It said people who live on Township Road 433 were being evacuated and people who live north and northwest of where that road intersects with Highway 795 were told to prepare to leave as well.
"Gather important documents and medication and enough food, water and supplies for 3 days," it read.
"No evacuation is required at this time, unless authorities tell you to leave. If you evacuate, go to the Reception Centre at the Ponoka Legion, at 3911 Highway 2A, in Ponoka to register."
Anyone who needs help leaving is asked to call 1-403-783-3333.
The Drayton Valley fire was out of control and burning southeast of that town, according to an alert issued at 5:37 p.m.