The wildfire threat to the capital region remains despite little movement in the wildfire overnight Wednesday. According to the GNWT update released Thursday morning, the winds will shift this afternoon from the north, which will primarily push these fires south, however, not directly towards Yellowknife.
According to fire officials, the fire remains approximately 15 kilometres from the Yellowknife municipal boundary, and is closest to the 314KM marker on Highway 3. However, despite the possibility the fire could reach the outskirts of the capital by the weekend, fire crews continue to dig out mitigation measures, including fire breaks, and sprinkler set-ups.
As of 11 a.m. Thursday, Behchoko is not under threat, and the significant burned area surrounding the community, alongside the strong perimeter built, continues to place it in the low risk category at this time. For those waiting to evacuate from the region, you are being warned that both heavy smoke, and potentially falling ash may be present in Yellowknife, N’Dilo, and Dettah.
Following the evacuation order issued for the City of Yellowknife due to fires, the GNWT has released a few details regarding where evacuees from the city are meant to go.
As of the morning of August 18, Highway 3 remains open for residents and evacuees who are able are being asked to travel by road and arrange for their own accommodations
Evacuees travelling by road who require support and accommodations in Alberta can receive help as of noon on August 17, in Valleyview Memorial Hall: 4808 50th Street, Valleyview, Alberta, Fox Creek Hall: 200 1st Street, Fox Creek, Alberta, and G.H. Dawe Community Centre: 6175 67 St, Red Deer, Alberta.
With files from Ethan Montague
