A wildfire in Crowsnest, Alberta grew rapidly, transforming into a giant fire with flames reaching 50 meters high and releasing energy equivalent to an atomic explosion every 30 minutes. As authorities evacuated households, Elaine Hruby watched helplessly from a safe distance as the intense, magnet-like flames destroyed her town of Hillcrest. While the fire burned over 20,000 hectares and impacted local industries, some ecological benefits emerged as 28% of burnt lumber was recycled, new plant growth sprung up, and biodiversity increased in the affected areas.

1. Aug. 2l, 2003 a random fire got out of control Crowsnest Fires

2. How? A seasonal wildfire changed direction transforming into a giant fire. The 6-km wall of flame reached 50 m into the sky, whipping over the slopes. It had energy equivalent to an atomic explosion every 30 minutes.

3. A Survivor’s Story At 10 A.M., authorities evacuated households in the path of the fire. Elaine Hruby took small valuables and the family pets. Drove to a safe overlook and watched the burning inferno destroy Hillcrest. She recalls, “those flames were like a magnet”. Describe how you would feel watching the fire.

4. The Affects Ecological Pros Spray Lake Sawmills recycled 28% the burnt lumber. De-barking the trees reduces carbon content. New life evolves from the rubble. Ecological diversity and rich undergrowth. Ecological Cons burned over 20,000 hectares of forest. affected the timber industry and local businesses. Tourism was hit hard. burnt bark is costly for lumber organizations to salvage.