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Grass fire ignites east of Edmonton
On Saturday, a grass fire erupted east of Edmonton, leading to significant disruptions for motorists. The Strathcona County RCMP announced the closure of a portion of Anthony Henday Drive, affecting travel in all directions.
The blaze was reported just before 2 p.m., and authorities quickly moved to implement road closures to ensure public safety.
Extent of road closures and public safety measures
According to the RCMP, the closures extend from Baseline Road to Wye Road, impacting not only Anthony Henday Drive but also most connecting roads and highways.
As the fire spread rapidly, fueled by strong winds, officials warned that additional closures might be necessary. “The public is asked to please avoid the area and plan your travels accordingly,” the RCMP advised, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Previous incidents and ongoing fire management
This incident follows another grass fire that occurred the previous night, which also resulted in road closures east of Edmonton. That fire had spread to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, prompting evacuation orders for nearby homes.
Fortunately, that fire was contained, and Highway 16 was reopened shortly thereafter. However, the recent events underscore the ongoing challenges posed by grass fires in the region, particularly during dry and windy conditions.
As the situation develops, residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed through local news updates and heed any warnings from authorities.
The fire management teams are actively working to contain the blaze and mitigate its impact on the community.
