Everyone in Fort Good Hope is safe and staying put as two wildfires continue to burn nearby.
Chief Wilfred McNeely Junior and the Sahtu Renewable Resources have decided not to evacuate the community after declaring a state of emergency over the weekend.
Community members on Sunday night described smoky skies as thunder and lightning struck Fort Good Hope without any sign of rain.
The first fire began after a lightning strike on Monday, July 3rd.
It is currently spreading through 5,000 hectares of land and located 23 kilometres from the community.
Another wildfire started due to lightning on Sunday that is located 83 kilometres from Fort Good Hope.
Environment and Natural Resources say both fires pose no immediate threat to the community.
The NWT Emergency Measures Organization is active and working closely with regional and local officials.
Plans are in place should an evacuation become necessary.
Residents of Fort Good Hope are encouraged to monitor the community’s radio station and Facebook page for updates.
