The wildfire near Highway 660 that crews have been battling since May 4, has officially been declared extinguished, according to a May 12 update from the Bonnyville Regional Fire Authority.
“The wildfire near Highway 660 has been declared extinguished, thanks to the ongoing and coordinated efforts of multiple agencies and community members,” stated the BRFA. Crews started packing up equipment on the afternoon of May 12, with officials noting that crews will continue monitoring for hotspots throughout the week.
Rainfall in the Lakeland was described as “welcome assistance” in the media release.
“This fire event presented difficult challenges for crews due to varying conditions, including weather patterns, winds, and dry conditions,” reads the release. “Additionally, the nature of the vegetation and soil in the area created further difficulties as the fire traveled underground, sometimes for considerable distances. The peat and swamp terrain also resulted in access problems, complicating efforts to reach and extinguish hotspots.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation.
“Gratitude is extended to the dedicated teams from BRFA, M.D. of Bonnyville, Alberta Forestry, Bonnyville RCMP, and various supporting organizations, businesses, and residents. Their hard work and teamwork were instrumental in initial containment and preventing further spread of the fire,” the statement concluded.
