Entire city evacuated amid massive Canada wildfire
Authorities called Tuesday for the mandatory evacuation of the entire city of Fort McMurray in northern Alberta, Canada, because of wildfire.
The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo in Alberta tweeted the expanded order Tuesday evening.
Nine air tankers and 100 firefighters have been battling the blaze, which began Sunday. The fire was estimated to be around 7,400 acres as of Tuesday morning, according CBC News.
The blaze has engulfed many homes and businesses but the exact number of burned structures isn't yet known, according to the Alberta Emergency Management Agency. No injuries or casualties have been reported.
With a population in Fort McMurray of more than 60,000, the evacuation is the largest wildlife evacuation in Alberta's history, according to CBC News.
The only hospital in the city, Northern Lights Regional Health Centre, evacuated all 105 patients, the Alberta Government said.
Prime Minster Justin Trudeau tweeted his support.
"My thoughts are with people affected by the fire in Fort McMurray tonight," he posted. "We stand ready to help."
Residents shared on social media their images of the massive wildfire enclosing their town
"I am out. I am safe," posted one resident on Twitter. "I've never been more scared in my life. Praying for my home right now."
William Stephen Jeffery captured video of the black smoke and orange flames approaching a building in Fort McMurray.
News Courtesy: www.cnn.com