In early May, a massive wildfire called “The Beast” enveloped Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada’s oil sands capital. It forced the largest wildfire evacuation in in the province’s history. The wildfire eventually consumed an estimated 1.5 million acres and 2,400 homes, forcing 80,000 residents to seek refuge in cities such as Edmonton.
In early June, officials allowed residents to return for their first look at the damage to their homes and property.
“This is going to be a very, very hard day for a lot of people,” Bob Couture, director of emergency management for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo told the CBC.
Multiple ministries focused on helping the families during their temporary resettlements. Save the Children Canada provided supplies for “the safety and wellbeing of children” that included hygiene kits, baby baths, pop-up kits and the creation of child-friendly spaces.
Pray for Fort McMurray residents as they begin the process of starting over in their hometown.
CNN: Alberta wildfire: ‘Welcome home Fort McMurray’
CBC: Fort McMurray braces for ‘very hard’ day as residents in hard-hit areas return
Huffington Post Canada: Fort McMurray Fire: Fort Mac Resident Returns To Devastating Scene
