Fires persist in proximity to multiple Northwest Territories communities, with active evacuation orders still in place. Here’s the latest update:
- Approximately 25,900 people, or 68 per cent of N.W.T. residents, evacuated
- A fire about 15 kilometres from Yellowknife could be pushed away from the city on Monday
- Approximately 350 CAF personnel, dozens of helicopters and heavy equipment are focused on the fires around Yellowknife and throughout N.W.T.
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau comments on “horrific” wildfires in N.W.T. and B.C.
Approximately 25,900 residents of the Northwest Territories have been compelled to evacuate their homes, representing a staggering 68 percent of the population, as relentless wildfires continue to rage throughout the region. As of the latest update, a total of 238 active wildfires are devastating the territory, causing widespread disruption and prompting a massive response effort.
Unprecedented Evacuations
The human impact of this year’s wildfire season in the Northwest Territories is unparalleled in its scale. Mike Westwick, a fire information officer for the N.W.T., characterized the situation as dire, with countless responders, friends, and families among the displaced population. The authorities are working tirelessly to facilitate safe and swift returns for those affected.
Massive Response Effort
To combat the wildfires, nearly 600 firefighters are actively engaged in the field, backed by over 300 military personnel, helicopters, air tankers, and heavy equipment. These dedicated teams are working relentlessly to gain control over the raging blazes.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite receiving some rainfall in recent days, the fires continue to defy containment efforts. Jennifer Young, from the territory’s Emergency Management Organization, emphasized that it remains unsafe for evacuated residents to return to their communities due to the relentless fire activity.
Threat to Yellowknife
Yellowknife, the territorial capital, faces a particularly grave threat, with a wildfire located approximately 15 kilometers northwest of the city. While recent rain has provided some relief, firefighting efforts remain focused on establishing firebreaks and direct attacks along the fire’s perimeter.
Rainfall and Drought
Rainfall has been sporadic, and the severe drought conditions in the area have allowed fires to burn deep into root systems, making them particularly challenging to extinguish. Significant rainfall over an extended period is needed to restore moisture levels to normal.
Ongoing Evacuation Order
The evacuation order for Yellowknife, affecting 22,000 residents, remains in place, with RCMP ensuring security and reporting limited incidents of suspicious activity. The RCMP has also noted increased wildlife sightings, including bears, which wildlife officers are addressing.
Canadian Armed Forces Assistance
Approximately 350 members of the Canadian Armed Forces have been deployed to assist in the firefighting efforts, focusing on Yellowknife and Hay River. They are primarily engaged in crucial support roles, freeing up wildfire firefighters to tackle active blazes.
National Response and Support
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his concern for the “horrific situations” in the N.W.T. and B.C., emphasizing the resilience and unity of Canadians during challenging times. The federal cabinet held an incident response group meeting to address the wildfires.
International Cooperation
Firefighters from various Canadian provinces, as well as South Africa, have joined forces to combat the fires, showcasing international solidarity in times of crisis.
Challenges in Fort Smith and Hay River
Communities like Fort Smith and Hay River are grappling with the approaching fires, with crews working tirelessly to protect these areas, setting up defensive barriers and sprinkler systems.
Remote Communities at Risk
Many of the wildfires are threatening remote or small communities. The evacuation of Jean Marie River and concerns surrounding Inuvik serve as reminders of the ongoing challenges faced by these areas.
Support for Disrupted Workers
The N.W.T. government has launched the Evacuee Income Disruption Support program to provide financial assistance to residents whose employment has been affected by the evacuations. Workers impacted by the wildfires can also apply for employment insurance (EI).