Smoke from a wildfire rises over the southwest of Grande Prairie, Alberta, on May 4, 2025. CTV
A wildfire in Alberta has become uncontrollable and is rapidly spreading toward the city of Grande Prairie. On Sunday, officials ordered evacuations as the fire came dangerously close to the city's limits.
Evacuation Orders in Place
Authorities have instructed everyone living south of Township Road 710 to 27 Avenue and east of Range Road 64 to Highway 40 to evacuate immediately. The province sent out an emergency alert, and the police are working to close roads and redirect traffic. Grande Prairie has a population of around 65,000, and many are now being forced to leave their homes.
Fire Spreads Quickly
The fire began near Range Road 64 and Township Road 710, located about four kilometers southwest of the city's boundary. According to Alberta RCMP, the fire is spreading and is getting close to an industrial park. The County of Grande Prairie confirmed the fire was moving toward Deer Ridge Estates, located between Township Roads 704 and 710. Firefighters from the County, the city, and Alberta Wildfire personnel are working together to contain the fire.
First Signs of Trouble
Luke Shropshire, a contractor from Grande Prairie, noticed smoke in the air around 2 p.m. while working on a roof in the Westpointe neighborhood. Shropshire said the smoke was coming from the southwest, and emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene. Police set up roadblocks, and bomber planes began dropping a red chemical to help fight the fire.
Firefighting Efforts
Residents in Grande Prairie reported seeing multiple planes, helicopters, and ground crews working hard to control the fire. Two water bombers were seen flying over the area, releasing water to help contain the flames. Social media posts also showed the massive efforts of emergency personnel trying to fight the fire from the air and the ground.
Evacuation Centers Set Up
The city has set up an evacuation center at the Pomeroy Hotel in Grande Prairie for those who have been forced to leave their homes. Residents are urged to bring important documents, medications, and medical devices with them.
A Growing Crisis
The wildfire near Grande Prairie continues to grow, and authorities are working to prevent further damage. The fire’s close proximity to residential and industrial areas has made it an urgent situation for the city and surrounding areas. The efforts of local firefighters, RCMP, and Alberta Wildfire crews are crucial as the fire spreads. The situation remains unpredictable, and the community is urged to stay alert and follow evacuation orders to stay safe.
