The Canadian authorities have issued a mandatory evacuation order for Fort McMurray as a wildfire rages nearby. Fort McMurray's entire population of 80,000 has been ordered to leave as a raging wildfire heads towards the city.

The fire's covered more than 2, 500 hectares since it was discovered on Sunday.

Alberta authorities are appealing to other provinces to help airlift people to safety and tackle the massive flames. 

Alberta's premier says leaving is a preferable option to hoping for the best. 

"As scary as it is to leave your home it's not as frustrating and scary as to find you're trapped by your home if the fire changes direction." 

More than 100 fire-fighters are tackling the flames, with the help of nine air tankers and and over a dozen helicopters. 

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