The fire in Sambaa K’e remains out of control and was last estimated at around 250,000 hectares burned in the territory.
Airtankers were able to fly throughout the day and complete drops on priority targets near the community to slow the spread.
Yesterday, the are saw winds of up to 70km/h, challenging helicopters late in the day. Helicopters have been playing a vital role for NWT Fire crews as the blaze continues to grow, bringing in crews throughout the day yesterday and continuing today.
Presently, there are 48 personnel assigned to the fire, making up seven crews, multiple airtankers and four helicopters.
NWT Fire crews say they are counting on assistance from expected rain today to stop the flames from reaching the community.
Following an ignition operation gone wrong, fire crews in the area continue to establish themselves to ensure there are no new flareups at the site of the test fire.
According to NWT Fire, expanding protection work beyond the community has been halted previously due to visibility concerns, stopping flights and slowing crews.
NWT Fire says missions around Island Lake will be flown throughout the week as conditions improve.
