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Flood warning, mandatory evacuation for people in remote Alberta hamlet

A flood warning has been issued for the rain-swollen Smoky River near the Hamlet of Watino
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PEACE RIVER, Alta. — A flood warning has been issued for the rain-swollen Smoky River near the Hamlet of Watino in northwestern Alberta.

Birch Hills County has declared a state of local emergency and issued a mandatory evacuation order for people in the remote area.

The county says people should leave immediately and report to a reception centre at Tangent Community Hall.

Reeve Gerald Manzulenko says the safety and well-being of residents is the top priority.

The county is urging people to stay away from river edges and low—lying areas.

The county has a population of about 1,600.