Evacuations have been ordered due to a wildfire burning in Woodlands County

A wildfire burning out of control has triggered an evacuation order for part of Woodlands County, including the West Ridge subdivision.

An Alberta Emergency Alert was issued shortly after 5 p.m. on Monday to alert area residents to the evacuation order.

The fire is burning 3.5 kilometres south of Whitecourt, just one kilometre away from Highway 43.

Firefighters are currently working to contain the blaze, with assistance from helicopters and air tankers.

Evacuees should register at a reception centre that has been set up at the Allan & Jean Millar Centre in Whitecourt, 58 Sunset Blvd.

According to Alberta Wildfire, the fire is approximately 55 hectares in size.