Alberta Wildfire 2016 - Wildfires Flashcards
1
Q
Where was the wildfire?
A
The wildfire was in Canada’s Alberta province. On May 1st 2016, a wildfire began southwest of Fort McMurray
2
Q
What caused the wildfire?
A
- Initial cause is still unknown but began in a remote forest area southwest of Alberta
- Shift in wind causes fire to progress to the outskirts of Fort McMurray
- Spotting which was carried by wind caused the fire to become erratic and out of control
- Lack of winter and spring snow caused the vegetation to be dry which meant fire was able to spread
3
Q
What were the environmental impacts of this wildfire?
A
- Scorched trees and tree roots
- Dry and scorched peaty soils
- Fire released several millions of tonnes of carbon into the atmosphere
- Still smouldering 12 months later in some parts
4
Q
What were the economic impacts of this wildfire?
A
- For McMurray wildfire cost $9.9 billion and this was the costliest natural disaster in Canada’s history
- Production in some industries near wildfire had to be stopped because workers needed to be evacuated
- 600 work camp units destroyed by fire
- Transport was affected including airport
5
Q
What were the social impacts of this wildfire?
A
- Evacuation of 90,000 people fr Fort McMurray
- Destroyed 3,000 homes and businesses
- Burnt land the size of Norfolk
- Power was disrupted
- Water supplies contaminated
- 2 people died indirectly during car crash while evacuating the wildfire
6
Q
What were the political impacts of this wildfire?
A
- Alberta government hoped that new research would help them understand the wildfire affected the physical and emotional health of people
:/Government pledged $3 million to the research program - Caused a debate about the impacts of climate change and future vulnerability to wildfires
- Government has to work with emergency services for evacuation procedures
7
Q
What were the short term responses of this wildfire?
A
- State of emergency was declared
- Help came from armed forces including helicopters, water bombs and firefighters from different states and countries
8
Q
What were the long term responses of this wildfire?
A
- Residents were allowed to return to their home in June 2016 (1 months after wildfire)
- There was a benefit concert to raise money for victims
- Online register for accommodation
- Landlords gave discount on houses to victims