Canada's Fort McMurray evacuated due to ravenous wildfire

The entire population of the Canadian city of Fort, more than 80,000 residents, was ordered to evacuate late on Tuesday as a massive wildfire swept through Alberta province's oil sands region. As flames continued to make their way into the city the evacuation order was extended to tens of thousands more people.

No casualties have been reported but damage has been extensive, with petrol stations exploding and a hotel and one of the town's many motor home parks going up in flames.

"All of Fort McMurray is under a mandatory evacuation order," Alberta emergency services said, after previously indicating that the northern edge of the fire was "growing rapidly”.

The airport was still open but the conditions were so bad that the hospital had to close.

Officials are doing all they could to ensure people's safety and are looking into the possibility of an airlift for residents with medical issues.

“Our focus is completely and entirely right now on ensuring the safety of people, of getting them out of the city and ensuring that they are safe and secure," said Alberta Premier Rachel Notely.

Authorities urged residents to head toward evacuation centres as the city reeled from what Notley called the province's largest ever evacuation.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he had called Notley to offer federal aid to the province.

"My thoughts are with people affected by the fire in Fort McMurray tonight. Stay safe and remember to follow evacuation orders," he tweeted.