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Wildfire now established in Cameron Valley

Sep 11, 2017 | 7:46 PM

WATERTON LAKES NP – The Kenow fire has advanced on Waterton yet again, resulting in closures to Highways 5 and 6 at the boundaries of Waterton Lakes National Park.

Here is the full update from Parks Canada:

Kenow Fire Information Update – Unified Command: September 11, 2017; 19:15

FIRE MOVEMENT AND BEHAVIOUR

·Fire is now firmly established in the Cameron Valley along the Akamina Parkway.

·There is also fire in the Tamarack Basin which is expected to grow and move into the Blakiston Valley and towards the Red Rock Parkway.

·We continue to monitor the fire progress.

·Structural protection units will be activated if necessary.

·Extensive infrastructure and facility protection is installed within the townsite including high volume pump and sprinkler systems around the perimeter of town.

·Highways 5 and 6 are now closed at the boundaries of Waterton Lakes National Park.

·We are expecting similar weather and intense fire behaviour tomorrow.

SMOKE

·Intense fire behaviour is generating significant smoke. Wind direction and temperature inversions may result in low-lying smoke in areas north of Waterton, especially at night.

·Exercise caution while driving in the area, especially at night. Check AB 511 for driving conditions. Speed limits or closures may be put in place.

·Wildfire smoke affects people differently. People with pre-existing health conditions or sensitivities to air pollution are at risk of worsened symptoms from smoke exposure. For smoke and air quality alerts visit: www.airhealth.ca