May 28, 2025: Alberta Wildfire firefighters, helicopters and heavy equipment continue to respond to wildfire EWF030, located 6 km west of Mercoal and 16 km southwest of Robb. The wildfire remains classified as out of control. Firefighters mapped this wildfire more precisely and determined that the size is now approximately 250 ha.
Yesterday saw cooler temperatures and nearly no fire activity. Today, firefighters are recording 25 C and 22% relative humidity and anticipating the temperature to climb. These cross over conditions, which means that the temperatures is lower then the relative humidity, creates perfect conditions for intense fire behaviour. Winds are forecasted from the southeast 20-25 gusting to 45 km/h, possibly moving any fire activity towards the northwest.
Tomorrow, similar weather conditions are expected with winds from the southwest, possibly moving the wildfire towards the northeast.
Firefighters will continue working to contain the wildfire with the assistance of heavy equipment and helicopters. They’re searching for and extinguishing hotspots which often involves digging deep into the ground and dousing the smoldering fire with water. Airtankers are available if required.
Yellowhead County Fire Deptarment (YCFD) firefighters have completed setting up Structural Protection Units (SPU) in Mercoal and have moved to Robb to set up sprinklers for buildings in the hamlet. Six four-hundred barrel water tanks have been set up strategically throughout Robb to provide water for the Sprinkler protections systems. Over one kilometre of hose has been laid down throughout the community to feed the sprinklers. The sprinkler protection system is being set up as a precautionary measure to reduce the threat of wildfire damage to the hamlet.
Robb residents will see continued activity in the hamlet today as YCFD firefighters continue to set up preventative Structural Protection sprinkler systems in the community. This is a precautionary measure for the safety of residents and homes in Robb.
YCFD firefighters in the hamlet can assist residents with any questions regarding the Structural Protection Units (SPU) being set up and other preventative measures.
There is no evacuation order for the community at this time; however, having a plan and being prepared is always a good idea. More information can be found at https://yhcounty.ca/living-here/emergency-preparedness/
Residents in the affected area can call 1-833-334-5630.
Remember to download the Alberta Emergency Alert app and the Alberta Wildfire app.
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Alberta Wildfire’s Edson Area Update https://www.alberta.ca/wildfire-update-edson-forest-area