Fort McMurray fire a bigger challenge than 2013 floods, says Red Cross
Province to match Canadian Red Cross donations for Fort McMurray
A raging wildfire has displaced 80,000 Fort McMurray residents, and while that's less than the 100,000 affected by the 2013 Alberta floods, the Canadian Red Cross says this disaster response is actually more challenging.
"Floods tend to be a little bit slower," said Jenn McManus, vice president of the Canadian Red Cross in Alberta.
"Fires are really fast, and erratic and unpredictable. Psychologically, it's really traumatic."
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McManus said the fast-moving flames pose serious hurdles for humanitarian and emergency response.
But she said co-ordination between various agencies will now be easier with the province-wide state of emergency in place.
She is asking anyone who is able to make a cash donation, as gifts in kind can be more "cumbersome" to operationalize, she said.
The Alberta government will match all donations to the Canadian Red Cross in support of Fort McMurray.
"The most effective thing people can do right now is make donations to the Red Cross, knowing our government will match those funds," said Premier Rachel Notley in a statement.
Donations can be made at the Red Cross website or by phoning 1-800-418-1111.