CURRENT UPDATE SITUATION FROM THE ALBERTA GOVERNMENT 25 confirmed state of local emergencies as of 1 p.m. 29 active local Emergency Operations Centres in southern Alberta, including municipalities, First Nations, and private industry (Fortis) Medicine Hat - Evacuation notices were delivered throughout Friday evening. Gas will be turned off in homes and businesses in the evacuation area by 2 p.m. Saturday. Approximately 70 inmates at the Medicine Hat Remand Centre (MHRC) were transferred Friday evening. Approximately 30 were transferred to the Lethbridge Correctional Centre and 40 to the Calgary Remand Centre. As well, intermittent serving inmates at the MHRC have been issued a temporary absence permit with the condition that they remain home during their weekend period of detention. Tourism, Parks and Recreation staff have evacuated 675 people from 43 campgrounds and facilities, including partial evacuation of the Delta Lodge in Kananaskis Village. They have participated in 17 aerial rescue operations to assist 108 people and provide supplies to others. The provincial visitor information centre in Canmore is open for extended hours to help travellers make alternative travel plans based on current information. Visitor Information Centres throughout southern Alberta and as far north as Red Deer are also extending their hours to help travellers locate accommodation and find alternate routes to travel. Up-to-date information about provincial parks impacted by flooding is available online and the 1-800-ALBERTA (252-3782) contact centre is staying open extended hours this weekend to assist visitors with their information needs and provide rerouting suggestions. The Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) has confirmed that actions to stop the flow of gas from the damaged sour gas pipeline in Turner Valley were successful. Complaints and emergencies related to the environment or energy operations should be reported to the Alberta Energy Regulator’s 24-hour response line at 1-800-222-6514. As flooding worsens in Alberta, the AER continues to monitor industry activity. At this time, no incidents have occurred that present a threat to public health or safety. Oil and gas producers are responsible for monitoring their facilities, ensuring they are operating safely, and notifying the AER should problems occur.
Posted on: Sat, 22 Jun 2013 21:49:48 +0000