Crews battling grassfire near Hilda
HILDA, AB — Firefighters from two provinces are battling a massive grassfire near Hilda that has already closed down one highway in Alberta and is threatening to enter Saskatchewan.
Shortly before 1 p.m., Cypress County receive a call about a fast moving grass fire north of Hilda. According to Alberta Emergency Alert, the fire is located between Township Roads 180 and 190, on both the east and west sides of Highway 41. The fire is rapidly moving in a northeast direction, as a result of the high winds.
RCMP closed Highway 41 in both directions due to smoke travelling across the highway and for safety concerns. Residents of Hilda were advised to be prepared to evacuate if the fire shifts.
According to fire chief Kelly Mayer, Cypress County firefighters from Box Springs, Seven Persons, Irvine, Walsh, Schuler and Hilda are battling the blaze, and being joined by firefighters from Richmound, Saskatchewan and other neighbouring areas.