A mandatory evacuation order was issued yesterday evening (Apr.27) for the entire lower townsite of Fort McMurray due to flooding. The area has now been closed for access.

The Northern Lights Regional Health Centre and Grayling Terrace are the exception to the order.

Visit rmwb.ca/riverbreakup for more information about the evacuation.

The Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo shared early this morning, "Let’s take a moment to thank the first responders, emergency management staff, volunteers, industry partners and community organizations who are currently awake and continue to support those in need. Challenges are nothing new to our region and our community comes together every time to overcome them. To everyone who is lending a helping hand, THANK YOU! Stay strong. Stay Smart. Stay safe."