The federal government has announced a major contribution to the relief efforts for the victims of the Fort McMurray wildfire.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced today that in addition to continued support through the future rebuild of Fort McMurray and the community, the Canadian government will match each individual donation to the Canadian Red Cross towards Fort McMurray relief efforts.
To contribute, visit their website at:Â http://www.redcross.ca/
Or text “Red Cross” to 30333 for a $5 dollar donation (text “Red Cross” to 45678 to make a $10 donation).
As well, the Alberta government held a press conference today to update people on the state of the situation in Fort McMurray.
On Wednesday, May 4th, northwest winds up to 70km/h caused the fire to grow and head towards the city.
The airport was threatened by flame, but has been secured. There is mild damage but it remains open to aircraft, bringing in supplies and for airtankers.
Northwest winds up to 40km/h are expected for today, to force the fire to grow in the southeast corner but away from the community.
The priorities right now are to protect the critical infrastructure and to evacuate the 25 thousand people in the northern camps, towards the south.
Currently, 85 thousand hectares are burning from the massive wildfire.