Out-of-control wildfire northwest of Calgary forces evacuation order, local state of emergency

An out-of-control wildfire in the Water Valley area, roughly 80 kilometres northwest of Calgary, has forced the Municipal District of Bighorn, Alta., to declare a state of local emergency.

The fire, estimated to be 85 hectares in size, is located approximately 25 kilometres west of Water Valley.

"While there is no imminent threat to any structures, the M.D. is taking this proactive step to ensure efficient management of this emergency," reads acivic alert issued just after 4 p.m. MT Wednesday.

It comes after an evacuation order was also issued on Tuesday night.

"Residents who are in the surrounding areas should be prepared to leave their properties with minimal notification when advised."

On its website, the municipal districtsaid that Alberta Wildfire is actively engaged in fire suppression.The fire, CWF057, was still burning out-of-control as of 8:45 p.m. Wednesday night.

Alberta RCMP issued a release asking motorists to be aware of extended delays and road closures at:

• North boundary: Burnt Timbers Road at the intersection with Highway 40, and the trunk intersection of 734 and Township Road 302(a) at Range Road 73 (a).
• East boundary: Burnt Timbers Road 303(b) at Range Road 64(a) gas plant access is closed.
• South boundary: Range Road 579 to Dock Mills Road at Township Road 294 (B).
• West boundary: Highway 40 at Harrold Creek Road 579.

The road closures were still in effect as of Wednesday afternoon.

Those who are seeking permission to enter the area due to livestock assistance or to access oil and gas sites must phone the Municipal District of Bighorn,according to an RCMP news release sent Wednesday just after 12 p.m.

A reception centre has been set up at Water Valley Community Hall located at Water Valley. Itwill remain open until 11p.m. Wednesday and will reopen Thursdaymorning at 9a.m. until 8 p.m.

"Please stay updated via the MD website and social media platforms on this evolving situation," reads the municipal district'swebsite.