The city is urging all residents who haven’t left yet to leave today. In a statement Friday the city did not mince words and said “EVACUATE TODAY”
“All residents, including families of essential staff, need to evacuate by TODAY – Friday, August 18, 2023,” reads a statement released by the city. If you’re able to get out of the region by vehicle, Highway 3 southbound remains open, and will as long as possible.
For those who aren’t able to leave by ground, air evacuations remain in progress, and city officials are urging everyone to pack up whatever they feel they need to, and register to leave as soon as possible.
“Go to Sir John Franklin School to register and get on flights. If you need a ride, call 867-444-0115. Currently, there are no wait lines but as the day progresses there may be due to the number of residents being evacuated. Come prepared for that possibility, but the GNWT is working hard to minimize wait lines,” the statement continues.
Those who are in the midst of packing up, it’s suggested to pack enough clothes, prescription medication, personal identification, and other essential items to last a few days, including requirements for pets. Residents are also being asked to turn off all non-essential electrical appliances and then shut off the main breaker panel, as well as move portable propane cylinders away from any house or structure to an area where fire impact will be minimal.
