7:13- Julie Green speaking on status of seniors, relocating long-term care individuals to Calgary and Edmonton. Reduced service at Stanton Hospital.
7:15 Mayor Alty speaks on evacuation status, not an order yet. If alert turns to order, evacuation centre will open as needed. City will communicate if an evacuation alert turns to order.
7:17 Question period starts.
7:18 Minister Thompson speaks on resources available for the GNWT, equipment, hotel accommodations, short notice needs
7:20 Thompson announces key priorities, no one priority at this point, making sure tools are in place if needed. Ministers working together as the situation evolves.
7:22 Thompson- resources not necessarily needed immediately, but operating as a ‘just in case,’ being proactive
7:24 Alty, preventative measures in place, continue to engage and monitor situation
7:25 Mike Westwick- compares and contrasts Fort McMurray fires and NWT Fires, wildfire management team not underestimating the severity of the situation
7:26 Thompson- looking at several options, shelter in place vs city wide evacuation
7:28 Premier Cochrane- I’ve never seen an evacuation in Yellowknife in my life; however, fire threats are not uncommon
7:29 Westwick- 61 fires in the area in the past decade, due to aggressive efforts by fire crews and fuel buildup leading to fire burning hotter and faster than ever
7:31 Thompson- lack of rain mixed with winds pushing the blaze towards Yellowknife, smoky conditions stopping air crews
7:35 Alty- focus is on fire breaks, if alerts expand work with Territorial and Federal government
