OMM Newsroom
A deadly fire broke out near a military base in eastern Alberta on Saturday after what authorities described as a “serious incident,” according to CNN. Firefighters were working to prevent the blaze from spreading into residential areas.
The Municipal District of Wainwright said in a Facebook post Saturday evening that a large fire near Canadian Forces Base Wainwright had spread rapidly in high winds and crossed into the district.
In a later update, the district said the fire had crossed the base fence and was being actively managed, with firefighters deployed from multiple jurisdictions.
The cause of the fire and the extent of the damage were not immediately clear. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said it stemmed from a “serious incident” and that his administration was working closely with the provincial government and local authorities.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith described the fire as “significant and tragic” and said it was affecting many military personnel.
No evacuation order had been issued. Authorities urged residents to stay away from the incident area, keep roads clear and avoid visiting the Wainwright Health Center except for critical medical needs.
David McGuinty, Canada’s minister of national defence, said he had been briefed by the Canadian Armed Forces on the “major incident.” Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre said he had spoken with McGuinty and Carney about the fire, thanked emergency responders and wrote: “Pray for Wainwright, everyone.”
