| Comments | Slave Lake AB, May 15 to May 22, 2011. Fortynine wildfires in north-central Alberta burned across the Lesser Slave River Region, prompting one of the most destructive wildfires in Canadian history. A state of emergency was declared by the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River No. 124 on May 15, after a wildfire that originated in the town of Slave Lake began to spread uncontrollably, affecting surrounding communities. The wildfire devastated the town of Slave Lake, where 374 buildings were destroyed and 52 damaged by the flames. Approximately 7000 people were evacuated from the town of Slave Lake and 735 individuals and families lost their homes. Outside of the town of Slave Lake, 59 other buildings were destroyed and 32 were damaged. Other affected communities include High Prairie, Little Buffalo, Red Earth Creek, Loon Lake First Nation (FN), Whitefish Lake FN and Woodland Cree FN. Penn West Petroleum, Exall Energy Corp. and Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. halted drilling in the region, suspended production and evacuated their employees. Canadian National (CN) Railway also halted their services in the region. By May 19, the number of evacuees rose to approximately 12,055. The total cost in damages was estimated at over $500 million. |