Mandatory evacuation order lifted in Thorhild County

Residents in Thorhild County received some good news when a mandatory evacuation order for the Half Moon Lake area was lifted.

The order had been issued on Sunday afternoon after hot and windy conditions helped the Thorhild County fire jump a 25-foot wide fireguard.

Firecrews were able to make some progress in their fight overnight on Sunday. The winds have now changed direction and the fire is burning back on itself.

Those living in the area were allowed to return home at 10:00 on Sunday evening, but have been advised to be ready to leave again on short notice.

A public information officer from Westlock County said that as of Monday morning the fire is now being held near the border of Thorhild and Sturgeon counties. The fire is currently 3,000 hectares in size and is still considered out of control.

Crews have established a fire guard around the blaze and continue to work to wider the barrier.

The fire has been burning since Wednesday, May 12th. One home and several other buildings have been destroyed by the blaze.