Drayton Valley evacuation order lifted

The evacuation order for Drayton Valley and some parts of Brazeau County have been lifted.

The Town of Drayton Valley posted on Facebook that as of 2 p.m., residents would be allowed to do a staggered re-entry into the community.

This will be the first time some residents will be allowed to return home since the evacuation order was put in place on May 4.

Despite this, residents living in the part of Brazeau County highlighted in red in the image below will not be able to return home as that area remains impacted by the Buck Creek fire.

According to officials in Drayton Valley, the evacuation order was lifted as the Buck Creek Wildfire is considered “being held.” This means the wildfire is not likely to spread beyond predetermined boundaries under prevailing conditions.

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RELATED:

• Drayton Valley evacuees expected to be out of homes for at least another week
• Alberta wildfire activity picking up with hot, dry conditions expected into next week
• ‘Perfect storm’: Alberta wildfires surge in hot and dry conditions

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Returning home

For those able to return, the staggered approach is being done to try and reduce traffic on the highway heading into Drayton Valley. Therefore, homes that end in an even number are able to begin returning at 2 p.m., and those with a house number ending in an odd number will be able to return as of 4 p.m.

While returning home, it is advised that drivers take the following routes:

• Arriving from the West: travel east on Highway 620
• Arriving from the North: travel south on Highway 22
• Arriving from the East: travel west on Highway 39
• Arriving from the South: travel north and use Highway 22

Officials are also asking drivers not to “slow down or stop on the roads to observe burned areas” and to use caution as fires continue to burn in the area.

In addition, it is advised that vehicles are fully fueled and that residents pick up a few days worth of groceries prior to returning home.

Residents are asked to read their community re-entry information booklet prior to returning and complete their checklist.

“I’m so happy to finally welcome our community home,” said Town of Drayton Valley Mayor Nancy Dodds. “This has been a very trying time, but I have been touched by the optimism, generosity and compassion of our residents.”

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Medical needs

For those with medical conditions, the Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Centre will reopen at 7:30 a.m. on May 17. EMS will remain available.

The Shale Medical Clinic will start taking walk-in appointments starting at 2 p.m.