N.W.T. Fire has issued an extreme fire weather warning. Extreme wind, heat, and lightning is expected with the Dehcho, South Slave, and North Slave regions “facing the highest danger.”
Officials warn that fire risk remains high, even if it might seem “cooler” in some areas.
“The Dehcho, South Slave, and North Slave regions face the highest danger,” said NWT Fire in a social media post on May 26.
The Southern Dehcho is “especially hot, dry, and windy,” while the Sahtu could see lightning strikes.
“We’re heading into very dangerous fire weather over the next few days. Conditions are hot, dry, and windy — perfect for wildfires to start and spread fast. Please be extra careful! If you’re having a campfire,” urged officials.
Fire Crew warned that fire restrictions are still in place for Fort Smith.
In Inuvik, a forest officer and a fire technician responded to an abandoned fire near Shell Lake Road on May 25. They warned that with dry grass, wind and warm temperatures, the fire could have spread quickly.
Thankfully, fire crew were able to extinguish it on time. Fire officials are reminding the public of the dangers of abandoned campfires, and the risk they can pose, as wildfires can start easily, especially under extreme weather conditions and get out of control.
Officials ask anyone with information about this fire to contact 867-678-5350.
N.W.T. advised to never leave a fire alone, “soak it, stir it, soak it again” and leave “only when it’s cool to the touch.”
Anyone who would like to learn more about fire safety can head to N.W.T. Fire’s prevention and safety pages
