A wildfire in Fort McMurray is destroying homes and has displaced thousands of residents.

In the Beacon Hill area, 80 per cent of homes were completely destroyed by 4 a.m. on Wednesday morning. 

According to the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo, the mandatory evacuation order is still in effect for all of Fort McMurray and residents are not able to return to their homes.

The wildfire, located one kilometre west of Gregoire in Fort McMurray, remains out of control and has burned approximately 2650 hectares. The north edge of the fire is growing rapidly.

There is serious loss to homes in Abasand and Waterways, and at least one home has been lost in Grayling Terrace, the downtown area, Thickwood and Dickinsfield. A total of 12 trailers have been confirmed lost on Mckinlay Crescent in the Timberlea area.  

Photo Credit: Stephen McKay on Facebook.

There are firefighters, aircraft and heavy equipment working on the wildfire and more resources are reportedly on their way.

As residents leave Fort McMurray, other communities are welcoming them. Reception Centres have been set up in Lac La Biche at the Bold Centre and in Edmonton at Northlands for residents evacuating to the south. Residents have been advised to follow the directions of local authorities.

Photo Credit: Stephen McKay on Facebook.

Alberta Transportation posted on twitter Wednesday morning that they are escorting a fuel tanker on Highway 63 to help out stranded drivers.

On Tuesday night, the Regional Municipality called on hotels with space to donate beds to first responders.

Hotels and lodges in other communities have stepped up to welcome evacuees.  

Photo Credit: Government of Alberta.

Those looking for more information can call the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo for wildfire information at 780-762-3636.

Right now the Red Cross is mobilizing to help and are calling for donations on their website. 

Photo Credit:: Stephen McKay on Facebook.