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Grassfire leads to evacuations

The blaze, which reporter John Cairns estimates is really three active fires, is burning on the northwest edge of the city. Smoke was first sighted shortly after noon.
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The blaze, which reporter John Cairns estimates is really three active fires, is burning on the northwest edge of the city. Smoke was first sighted shortly after noon.

Gusting winds are a factor, and although Cairns says Fire Chief Pat MacIssac describes the blaze as "under control" residents are advised to remain diligent.

"No where near out," is how Cairns described the situation at about 2 p.m.

A City advisory indicates Territorial Drive is closed between 95th Street and Railway Avenue.

According to a City press release, Battlefords RCMP did evacuate a few houses in the Killdeer neighbourhood. Those affected have been notified by the RCMP. A fire that jumped across Territorial Drive is now out. Heavy smoke is also dissipating. The cause is undetermined.NBFES firefighters as well as firefighters from the Town of Battleford and RM are on the scene.Residents in the area are advised to stay away from the heavy smoke and close windows to avoid breathing problems.To see photos from the fire, go to the photo gallery tab on the right-hand side of the front page.