Massive convoy moves stranded oil field evacuees to safety
Ben Gale, a boilermaker at Syncrude, evacuated his work camp north of Fort McMurray and has joined a 400-vehicle convoy driving south along Hwy. 63 to Lac La Biche. Fifty vehicles at a time are being allowed to pass through Fort McMurray. Police are circling overhead in helicopters to ensure safety and watch for a change in wind direction and approaching wildfire.
The convoy stops on Hwy 63 north of Fort McMurray waiting for permission to proceed south.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
Only 50 vehicles at a time are allowed to proceed through Fort McMurray.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
Drivers wait their turn to proceed.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
The convoy drives through Fort McMurray.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
Smoke is everywhere in Fort McMurray and it appears cars have been abandoned.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
A camper van is abandoned in the median.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
The charred remains of a Super 8 are seen through the window.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail
Ahead, on the left, a bus has been abandoned.Ben Gale/The Globe and Mail