Wildfire closes in on western Canadian city

By Agence France-Presse

May 16, 2024 1:58 pm

FORT MCMURRAY, Canada – A wildfire in Canada's major oil-producing region doubled in size as it drew closer to the city of Fort McMurray on Wednesday, but officials were hopeful shifting winds could soon push it away.

The blaze scorched almost 21,000 hectares (52,000 acres) of forest overnight as it came within 4.5 kilometers (2.8 miles) of the city, which was partly evacuated the day before.

OUT OF CONTROL Columns of smoke move in various directions due to shifting winds in the Fort McMurray Forest Area of Alberta province, western Canada on May 13, 2024. ALBERTA WILDFIRE HANDOUT PHOTO VIA AFP

Already have an active account? Log in here to continue reading.
Or
Subscribe to the Premium Subscription plan to access this subscriber-exclusive article.

Related Articles

China expands army drills around Taiwan

South Korean police blocked from raiding Yoon's office

Armed group claims control of Myanmar border region

Anti-Israel graffiti in Sydney an 'outrage' – Australian PM

Interim Syrian PM picked as refugees head home

Netanyahu: Corruption charges are 'ridiculous'

Washington disburses $20-B loan for Ukraine