It is going to be a very busy day in Alberta, as many residents begin returning to their Fort McMurray homes after evacuation last month due to wildfires.
Executive Director of Operations for the Alberta Emergency Management Agency Scott Long says they have broken the region up into zones, and residents will be permitted to return as scheduled.
Criteria for a safe return to #ymm have been met. Voluntary phased re-entry will begin June 1 as planned. https://t.co/aPXixorYjd #ymmfire
— Alberta Government (@YourAlberta) May 31, 2016
Watch live at noon: Fort McMurray re-entry update. https://t.co/4LUPYSijmc #ymmfire #ymm
— Alberta Government (@YourAlberta) May 31, 2016
The process is expected to begin this morning.
Long says they are also offering mental health support, as they know this will also be a difficult time for many, “We know that the coming days will be emotional for many residents of Fort McMurray. Please go to the information centres upon your re-entry to get the latest information and mental health supports. We know that the people of Fort McMurray are eager to return to their beloved community, but we ask that residents respect their zone day. To ensure an orderly and safe return the residents, the re-entry dates have been staggered to reduce congestion on highways and at information centres. We are working closely with the Regional municipality and the RCMp to ensure this process goes safely and smoothly.”
The wildfires are still burning and are covering around 580, 000 hectares. They are still considered to be out of control.
