The four-year anniversary of the Fort McMurray, Alta., wildfire is days away and, yet again, thousands of residents of the entire lower townsite are under a mandatory evacuation. Flooding and rising river levels caused by ice jams has threatened homes and businesses in the heart of the community’s downtown.
“Due to the fact that it is just short of four years since the community of Fort McMurray was evacuated to escape the ravages of wildfires, upwards of 13,000 residents of the northern Alberta community are once again being evacuated,” says Major Al Hoeft, spokesperson for The Salvation Army. “The flood waters, as of Tuesday morning, have not crested so more challenges lay ahead. In addition, the evacuation process is further complicated by the current COVID-19 pandemic and the physical distancing requirements associated with it.”

“Dealing with this natural disaster at the same time as the coronavirus, is significantly adding to the stress and challenges people are already facing,” says Hoeft. “Please keep the people of Fort McMurray, first responders, volunteers and Salvation Army personnel in your prayers as they continue to support where the need is greatest.”
To donate to The Salvation Army's response efforts in Fort McMurray, click here.
Comment
On Sunday, May 3, 2020, Val Sherriff said:
Leave a Comment