Crowsnest Fires - Ed3508
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The Lost Creek Fire in August 2003 released energy equivalent to an atomic bomb every 30 minutes as it burned through 20,000 hectares of forest near Hillcrest, Alberta. Residents were evacuated from Hillcrest around 10am as the 6km wall of flames reached 50m into the sky. While some residents watched in fear as the flames approached, the fire ultimately benefited the local ecology and economy, promoting new growth and providing work for local businesses and a sawmill through salvaging burnt timber.
Crowsnest Fires - Ed3508
- 2. Lost Creek Fire 6 km wall of flame, 50m into the sky Gave off energy equivalent to an atomic bomb every 30 minutes Aug 21, 2003 20, 000 hectares of forest
- 3. People evacuated Town of Hilllcrest evacuated around 10 am Many residents just watched the flames come over the mountain “ I felt masochistic, sitting on the outcropping”, Elaine Hruby recalls. “But those flames were like a magnet.”
- 4. Did anyone benefit from the fire? Ecological Pros: ecological diversity and development of rich undergrowth that was not there before Local Businesses: gas stations drycleaners restaurants Spray Lakes Sawmill: salvaged burnt timber
- 5. Questions?