Rocky View County officials said that it appears the initial cause of a massive grass fire, which is now under control, was a downed power line. Officials said strong wind gusts of up to 70 kilometres per hour contributed to the fire spreading over approximately 350 acres.
The fire started before noon, Northwest of Airdrie, near Township Road 280 and Range Road 23.
Initially, officials said that evacuations were in progress, but in an update at approximately 3 p.m., officials said that there was no need for further evacuations.
"Please note that power outages will continue until 7:30 from Township Road 280, extending north for one mile along Simon Valley Road, to allow for repairs," officials stated.
The public is being asked to avoid non-essential travel in the affected areas to ensure the safety of residents and emergency responders.
Rocky View County emergency teams are actively managing hot spots and reinforcing the fire's perimeter to protect nearby structures and prevent the fire from spreading.
The Crossfield Reception Centre has also been opened for those who are being evacuated. The centre is located at 900 Mountain Avenue in Crossfield. This facility is equipped to assist evacuees and provide resources.
Fire crews from seven Rocky View County Stations, with additional support from the Town of Crossfield, Mountain View County, the City of Airdrie, and the Municipal District of Big Horn also responded to the fire.
Mon, Apr 29, 6:00 PM
Full-time, Part-time, Retail