Wildfire West of Barrhead Prompts Evacuation Order, Homes Damaged
Wildfire Forces Evacuation West of Barrhead

An Alberta Emergency Alert was issued Thursday, May 28, 2026, after a wildfire impacted homes in a subdivision approximately 20 kilometers west of Barrhead. Residents in the area, located about 120 kilometers northwest of Edmonton, were ordered to evacuate Thursday afternoon as the blaze spread.

Evacuation Ordered for Summerlea Subdivision

At 4:55 p.m., a local state of emergency was declared, advising residents in the Summerlea subdivision near Thunder Lake to evacuate immediately. The alert confirmed that structural fires were burning within the subdivision.

"Residents in the Summerlea subdivision must evacuate immediately," the alert stated, noting the presence of structure fires. Evacuees were directed to take Highway 18 to Barrhead and register at the County of Barrhead office, located at 5306-49 St. Officials urged people to avoid travel in the area.

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Expanded Evacuation to Thunder Lake Subdivision

The evacuation alert was expanded at 5:42 p.m. to include the Thunder Lake subdivision. The alert reported structural fires south of the provincial park boat launch, and evacuated residents were again directed to register at the County of Barrhead office.

Officials continue to monitor the situation, and further updates are expected as the wildfire develops. Residents are advised to follow all emergency instructions and stay informed through official channels.

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