Nearly 90 per cent of structures in Fort McMurray have been saved.
On Monday afternoon it was confirmed that first responders have saved about 85 per cent of structures in the city, after a wildfire that has grown to 204,000 hectares in size ripped through the northern city.
Premier Rachel Notley said that about 2,400 structures have been lost, but crews have been able to save almost 25,000. The buildings that have been saved include the hospital, municipal buildings and every functioning school.
“That said, let's be clear. And please hear me on this: Don't drive for four hours just to be told by the RCMP at the checkpoints outside of Fort McMurray that you have to turn around and go all the way back. Today, this city is not safe without the kind of police and fire escort we had.”
There were no fatalities because of the wildfire, however two young people did lose their lives while evacuating the city in a car accident.
May 8, 9:55 p.m. - A message from Darby Allen #ymmfire pic.twitter.com/8iTjT3uAIN
— RMWB (@RMWoodBuffalo) May 9, 2016
In a twitter video Darby Allen, the Fort McMurray fire chief did say one of the families had close ties with the fire department, as the father is a firefighter.
On Monday, media and politicians were given the first close-up look at the damage the fire has caused. There are smoldering hotspots, hazardous materials and broken power lines throughout the different neighbourhoods.
To each and every one of the hundreds of heroes who saved the people of #ymm and the town itself -- thank you. We're all with you. #ymmfire
— Rachel Notley (@RachelNotley) May 9, 2016
The SPCA also brought the first convoy of domestic pets that were saved by first responders over the past week to Edmonton on Monday.
Notley said this Canadian disaster will bring economic effects provincially and nationally. On Tuesday Notley will be meeting with leaders in the energy industry to speak about the effects.
Earlier today we escorted Alberta Premier, @RachelNotley, on
— RCMP Alberta (@RCMPAlberta) May 9, 2016
a tour of Fort McMurray. #YMMfire pic.twitter.com/CtW8bBm8aq
The fire is about 25 to 30 kilometres from the Saskatchewan border and wildfire fighters continue to work to contain the blaze. More than 700 are currently on scene fighting the fire and another 300 are on the way.
“This beast of a fire is burning out of control out there, but we are holding the line where we need to, at least for today. To each and every one of the hundreds and hundreds of heroes who saved the people of Fort McMurray and the town itself -- thank you. We're all with you,” said Notley.
