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Evacuation remains for western edge of Coleman – Hwy-3 reopened

Oct 17, 2017 | 4:34 PM

CROWSNEST PASS – The western edge of the Town of Coleman was evacuated by Crowsnest Pass RCMP and emergency services on Tuesday afternoon, as a wildfire threatened the community.

The fire moved rapidly, due to extreme west winds.

Alberta Emergency Alert reported that all residents on Willow Drive must evacuate immediately, while all others in Coleman should be prepared to leave on short notice. All evacuees should go to or call the Vertical Church in Pincher Creek to register. Phone # 403-627-9457.

There were traffic disruptions both east and westbound due to poor visibility due to wildfire smoke, and motorists were asked to avoid travelling through the Crowsnest Pass at that time. However, Highway-3 was re-opened to traffic Wednesday afternoon

As of Wednesday morning, Oct. 18, an evacuation remained in place for Willow Drive, McLaren Ridge, Carbondale Trailer Court, and MacGillivary Flats. According to the regional emergency management organization, 82 people have registered at the evacuation centre in Pincher Creek.

The mayor of Crowsnest Pass said the situation was improving. Blair Painter says the wind died down and helicopters were dropping water on the flames.

He says so far it doesn’t appear that any homes have been lost.

Painter says it is believed downed power lines caused the fire which began about a kilometre west of the community.