A fast-moving wildfire east of Edmonton caused significant damage to the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village on Friday, with several historic buildings either destroyed or severely damaged.
Located near Elk Island National Park, the open-air museum represents the early life of Ukrainian settlers in Canada. The wildfire prompted an emergency evacuation alert for nearby residents, which was later lifted after officials confirmed the blaze was contained.
The fire also led to the temporary closure of Highway 16, which has since reopened in both directions. RCMP images from the scene show one building reduced to rubble, while others suffered visible damage. Crews continue to battle remnants of the fire, and authorities are urging the public to avoid the area.
Jay Zaal, a Lamont County spokesperson, confirmed that the visitor centre at the heritage site was affected. He added that high winds complicated efforts, making air support impossible. The fire spread across Highway 16, and mutual aid was called in from Strathcona County to assist Lamont County Emergency Services.
Elk Island National Park and Lamont County remain under fire restrictions, and the cause of the wildfire is under investigation. Alberta Wildfire noted the blaze falls outside its forest protection area and no additional support has been requested.
Source: Swifteradio.com
