Fort McMurray evacuated

Update:

Premier Rachel Notley says that 1,600 structures have now burned and that the future is grim in Fort McMurray.

There have been no reports of injuries or death, however the fire is still out of control.

Original:

[projekktor id=’23967′]

All of Fort McMurray, Alberta has been evacuated as wildfires engulf the city destroying entire neighbourhoods.

Tens of thousands of people are trying to make their way out, often through flames. in fact Highway 63, the main way into Fort McMurray from the south, was closed after flames jumped the road.

The wildfire began Sunday and looked to be under control Tuesday morning but it suddenly intensified with shifting winds and soaring temperatures.

Those trying to flee ran into a number of problems, traffic being a big one as cars were stuck bumper to bumper. To make matters worst, may were simply running out of gas.

Hundreds of Mounties and emergency personnel were on scene trying to get people out and Alberta’s Premier, Rachel Notley is urging residents to listen.

Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry has issued a statement:

“I would like to begin by saying that our thoughts are with the people affected by the fires in Fort McMurray, Alberta. Ontario has been asked to provide assistance and will be sending 119 staff to Alberta – 100 firefighters and 19 supervisory staff.   Our crews will be deployed on Friday.  The call for assistance is being coordinated through MNRF via the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre.  My Ministry stands at the ready to provide additional resources as requested, including additional firefighters and aircrafts.”