An out-of-control forest fire burning in central Alberta grew overnight as hundreds of people remain on evacuation alert.
About 500 people near Rocky Mountain House are waiting as crews battle the blaze near Burnstick Lake, 40 kilometres to the south.
The wildfire, which was discovered Monday afternoon, grew to 8.5 square kilometres overnight from seven square kilometres on Wednesday.
Campgrounds near Burnstick Lake, Tay River and Phyllis Lake are also on alert.
More than 90 firefighters, including 33 from the Northwest Territories, have been using bulldozers and air tankers to fight the fire.
Strong winds, high temperatures and low humidity have made conditions worse. Provincial wildfire information officer Rick Strickland said water bombers are also on standby should they be needed.
The forecast calls for continuing warm weather with a chance of showers or a thunderstorm.
Campers heading out for the long weekend are being asked to be especially careful with their fires.