Saskatchewan has sent emergency assistance to Alberta following an explosion and fire at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright that has resulted in an unknown number of fatalities and injuries.

The fire broke out in the base’s training area around four o’clock Saturday afternoon and quickly spread beyond its boundaries. High winds, with gusts reaching up to 100 kilometres an hour in parts of Alberta, made firefighting efforts more difficult.

Premier Scott Moe says the province is prepared to provide additional resources if needed.

STARS Air Ambulance dispatched two aircraft from Saskatoon and Edmonton to help with the emergency response.

Hospitals across Alberta activated a Code Orange to coordinate resources and treat multiple severely injured patients.

Defence Minister David McGuinty described the situation as active and delicate during a news conference late Saturday.

He says federal, provincial and municipal officials are working together to coordinate emergency support and investigate what happened.

Local community organizations also opened their doors to support families and medical staff working through the night.