Barrhead County Declares Emergency as Wildfire Forces Evacuations, May 29

County of Barrhead declared a state of local emergency on May 28 after a grass fire destroyed eight cabins and approximately 30 outbuildings near Thunder Lake, about 20 km west of Barrhead. Residents of the Thunder Lake subdivision remain evacuated as of May 29 morning, while the Summerlea subdivision evacuation was lifted the same evening. Fire crews from multiple agencies contained the blaze by Thursday night.

How the Fire Spread and Response

An Alberta Emergency Alert was issued at 4:55 p.m. on May 28 for the Summerlea subdivision. At 5:42 p.m., the evacuation order expanded to include the Thunder Lake subdivision, south of the provincial park boat launch. Residents reported seeing thick black smoke rising from across the lake around 4:15 p.m. Fire crews from Barrhead, Lac Ste. Anne, Fort Assiniboine, and Alberta Wildfire responded to the scene.

Evacuation Status and Damage Assessment

The Summerlea subdivision evacuation was lifted at 6:45 p.m., allowing residents to return home. Thunder Lake residents remained under evacuation orders as of 9:00 a.m. on May 29. County officials said fire crews were assessing damage and ensuring site safety before coordinating a safe return. The fire affected eight cabins and about 30 outbuildings, though officials did not specify the extent of damage to each structure.

What Residents Must Do Now

Residents ordered to evacuate must take Highway 18 to Barrhead and register at the County of Barrhead office at 5306-49 Street. The county website provides ongoing updates on evacuation status. All other residents should avoid traveling near the fire area. The county said it would provide further updates on when Thunder Lake residents can return home.

Final Thoughts

The Barrhead fire destroyed multiple structures and forced evacuations across two subdivisions. Thunder Lake residents remain displaced as of May 29 morning, with the county assessing utilities and site safety before allowing return.

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