Wildfire northwest of Edmonton being held, evacuation order still in effect

The wildfire near Whitecourt that forced dozens out of their homes is being held, but no one can return home yet.

As of Wednesday afternoon, a wildfire that was burning out of control near the town of Whitecourt is being held.

An update from Alberta Wildfire shortly after noon says a wildfire is being held when it is not expected to grow beyond its existing boundaries given current weather conditions and resources.

While the fire is being contained, an evacuation order remains in effect for residents south of Highway 43, between West Ridge subdivision (Range Road 114), east to and including Range Road 111A in Woodlands County.

Alberta Wildfire said firefighters are anticipating strong winds into this evening, gusting up to 60km/h from the northwest that could challenge crews with any hotspots.

“However, cloud cover, cooler temperatures and higher relative humidity will help with firefighting conditions,” said the agency in a statement.

The 51-hectare fire is located about 3.5 kilometres southeast of Whitecourt and less than one kilometre south of Highway 43.

Whitecourt is about 150 kilometres northwest of Edmonton.