A state of local emergency is in effect for the Summer Village of Sandy Beach after a wildfire destroyed several homes on Saturday.
According to a social media update from Sturgeon County posted at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, the fire has "consumed three homes and badly damaged another." Firefighting crews from multiple surrounding jurisdictions have been deployed to the scene.
In a statement posted to the village’s website, officials advised all residents of the community “to remain in their homes and avoid leaving unless absolutely necessary.
The statement urged residents to prepare an emergency bag and to be ready to evacuate the village on short notice.
A provincial wildfire alert issued Saturday just before 10 p.m. said the wildfire is burning on the east side of Sandy Lake near the village.
The alert said wind direction is forecast to change Sunday morning, which may push the fire toward Lakeshore Drive. It said if this occurs, an evacuation may be required.
Everyone along Lakeshore Drive and on the east side of Sandy Beach must be prepared for a possible evacuation, the provincial alert warned.
The village, located about 65 kilometres northwest of Edmonton, has approximately 278 full-time residents.
