Fire Could Double in Size by the End of Saturday; Province Announces Financial Support
FORT MCMURRAY – In the face of an already grim reality, officials fear the already massive wildfire tearing through northern Alberta could double in size by the end of Saturday.
Chad Morrison, provincial manager of wildfire prevention, says extremely dry conditions and high temperatures are expected in the area along with strong winds.
He expects the blaze to expand into a more remote forested area northeast of Fort McMurray. At this point, no amount of resources can put the fire out. What’s needed is rain, a little of which is expected on Sunday.
There are currently 1,200 firefighters, approximately 110 helicopters, 295 pieces of heavy equipment and more than 27 air tankers on hand.