A grass fire on the Blood Indian Reserve west of Lethbridge is burning out of control, pushed by 90 km/h wind.
The City of Lethbridge has closed various roads on the west side, and an evacuation order has been issued for several subdivisions around the city.
County of Lethbridge fire crews are on site, assisted by those from the city and nearby towns. The Alberta Emergency Alert system advises people to stay away from the fire and allow emergency crews to work. Smoke is limiting visibility in the area and road conditions are hazardous, the alert system reported.
The fire started on the reserve west of Highway 509. Individuals on Twitter have suggested the fire started from a downed power line, but that has yet to be confirmed.
A fire west of Lethbridge last November also threatened parts of the city and burned a wide swath of prairie on the Blood Reserve. It was started by hot stones from a sweat lodge.
