Wildfire northwest of Calgary not expected to grow

A wildfire that has been threatening communities around Water Valley since last weekhas shrunk and is no longer classified as "out of control."

The fire, which is approximately 80 kilometres northwest of Calgary, is now 65.4 hectares in size. Alberta Wildfire describes it as "being held."

This means the fire is no longer anticipated to grow outside of expected boundaries given current firefighting resources and weather conditions.

Active suppression of the wildfire will continue in the coming days, according to an update posted to the website for the Municipal District ofBighorn.

The M.D. of Bighorn continues to be in a local state of emergency, and an evacuation alert remains in effect for residents in the following areas:

• M.D. of Bighorn west of Water Valley (Doc Mills Road, RR62A).
• Whispering Pines Road (TWP 294A).
• Burnt Timber Road.

Road closures are also in effect in the following areas:

• Highway 579 (Harold Creek Road).
• Highway 40.
• Burnt Timber Road.
• Stud Creek Road.

A reception centre at the Water Valley Community Hallfor those requiring information or supportwas closed July 26. Officials say it will bereactivated if necessary.