Evacuation Order: Entire community of Fort Chipewyan

Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN), Mikisew Cree First Nation (MCFN), Fort Chipewyan Métis Nation and the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB) have issued a joint evacuation order for the entire Fort Chipewyan community.

At this time the priority for evacuation continues to be vulnerable and elderly people. If you are in this group, you are asked to register at the Archie Simpson Arena. Do not go directly to the airport at this time.

Air transportation from the community to Fort McMurray is being arranged as well as temporary accommodations in Fort McMurray and Fort McKay for evacuees. 

Evacuation being staged by area

The evacuation will be done in stages and will begin with residents in Allison Bay, the nearest community to the wildfire boundary. Residents will be informed through the three Nations or emergency officials by phone or door-to-door once their neighborhood is ready to be evacuated.  

There are limited flights available for the remainder of today, May 30. The majority of people will be transported out of Fort Chipewyan tomorrow, beginning at approximately 8 a.m. If you do not live in Allison Bay or are not a vulnerable person, please wait until tomorrow to register as an evacuee and leave the community.

Fort Chipewyan leadership is asking all residents to remain calm and wait to be informed. Evacuating in stages is needed due to limited space at the airport.

All evacuees must report to Archie Simpson Arena first

All evacuees must report to Archie Simpson Arena to receive a wristband and be assigned a flight. Residents evacuating by boat on the Athabasca River should then report to Big Dock before travelling south to Fort McKay or to your cabin. An evacuation registration centre will also be located in Fort McKay. 

Joint response

Chief Adam, Chief Tuccaro, and President Cardinal are working closely with RMWB Emergency Management and Alberta Forestry during this time. This is considered the number one priority wildfire in Alberta and firefighting resources from the RMWB and across the province are being brought into the community.

Wildfire status

Alberta Wildfire is leading the suppression, management and updates on the status of the wildfire, including wildfire MWF025. Find current information and daily updates on the status of wildfires on the Alberta Wildfire App and here: https://srd.web.alberta.ca/fort-mcmurray-area-update

Care of Pets

Pets may be brought to the Archie Simpson Arena. There are plans in place to help keep pets safe. Please make sure to leash your pets and bring a crate if possible.

Please complete the Animal Rescue request if an animal needs to be rescued by RMWB staff. Ensure all information is correct before submitting the form.

Every effort will be made to evacuate pets, understanding that the safe evacuation of community members is the priority.

All evacuees should register online  

If you are living in areas under an Evacuation Order you should register online as an evacuee. To register visit, MyAlberta Emergency Registration System (MAERS). Those having trouble with online access can call the Government of Alberta call centre (310-4455) to register over the phone.

All evacuees are advised to: 

Follow the instructions of emergency responders.     Ensure everyone in your household is aware of the evacuation Notify emergency responders if you are aware of vulnerable residents who may need assistance evacuating.  

Find all alerts, updates and more information at rmwb.ca/fortchip

Fire Restriction in effect for most of Wood Buffalo region

The dry conditions, warming temperatures and forecasted periods of high winds continue to elevate the wildfire risk. Everyone must use caution when working or enjoying the outdoors during this time.

For the most up-to-date information on provincial fire advisories and restrictions, download the Alberta Wildfire App or visit albertafirebans.ca. If you see a fire in the forested area, report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473).

Stay informed

Evacuation and emergency updates will continue to be provided as they become available. Find the most recent and up-to-date information by:

Visiting rmwb.ca Following the RMWB on Facebook and Twitter (@RMWoodBuffalo) Contacting Pulse at 780-743-7000 or 1-800-973-9663