Alberta government approves $30M in disaster funding for wildfire, flood damage

Wildfires and too much rain this year will put a $30-million dent in Alberta’s finances.

The United Conservative cabinet has declared official disasters in some communities to free up money to cover damage caused by the flames and local flooding.

The disasters include wildfires that damaged the Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement, Lamont County and Mackenzie County.

READ MORE: 8,100 Alberta wildfire evacuees allowed to return home

1:41 Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement residents return to devastation

• Paddle Prairie Metis Settlement residents return to devastation
• Wildfires force thousands from homes again in northern Alberta
• Alberta communities evacuated overnight as northern wildfires spread
• More Alberta wildfire evacuees likely returning home Wednesday
• High Level residents starting to get back into their routines

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Other disasters included flooding and extreme rain that affected the Municipal District of Lesser Slave River, Rocky View County, Yellowhead County, Lac St. Anne County, Parkland County, Brazeau County and the Town of Stony Plain.

The Municipal Affairs department says the disaster recovery program will include $12.2 million for preliminary claims submitted by the communities.

READ MORE: Wet growing season prompts Leduc County to declare state of agricultural disaster

1:38 Rain forces Lac Ste. Anne County to declare agricultural disaster

The remaining cash will go to repairing damaged roads, highways and infrastructure.

The government says it could take up to five years to determine the exact costs.