The town of Fort Smith and N.W.T. Fire just issued a full fire ban in place effective at 5 p.m. today for the town of Fort Smith, Métis Cabins and Campground at Thebacha.
N.W.T. Fire warned that fire danger “remains extremely high across much of the N.W.T.”
Officials cautioned that while no major wildfires are present “conditions could change quickly.”
“Severe wind events and extreme fire weather are anticipated throughout the South Slave region over the next several days,” said officials. Due to the increased risk, a full fire ban was put in place.
At the request of the Fort Smith Métis the ban was extended to the Métis Cabins and Campground at Thebacha.
“No outdoor open flame fires are allowed. – Propane appliances may be used with extreme caution. Keep hot appliances away from buildings and combustible materials. – Avoid operation of any motorized vehicles in tall grasses and forested areas,” officials advised.
The town of Fort Smith is also advising the public to be weary of trees, especially in certain areas of the town that could fall unexpectedly.
“With severe winds, you can expect trees in burnt areas to fall unexpectedly. Avoid the burnt areas along Axe Handle Hill, the trail system behind Axe Handle Hill, and any areas affected by the 2023 wildfire,” officials warned.
N.W.T. Fire cautioned that much of the territory is seeing strong winds, very dry air and a heat wave – conditions which can lead to fast-moving wildfires.
Officials advised to watch out for extreme weather, like “strong winds” which can push fires quickly and knock down trees and “very low humidity” which dries out grass, trees, and ground cover.
N.W.T. fire reported that lightning storms continue in parts of the Sahtu, North Slave, and Dehcho. They warned that even with light rain, fire can still spread.
They said “rapid warming and drying” will continue.
N.W.T. also reported that on Saturday afternoon, officers responded quickly to smoke in a swampy area north of Behchokǫ̀. They said the smoke was caused by smouldering embers from an old brush burn. The crews were able to respond quickly and prevent the fire from spreading.
N.W.T. advised to never leave a fire alone, “soak it, stir it, soak it again” and walk away “only when it’s cool to the touch.”Watch for falling trees in burned or drought-hit areas.
Officials urged the public to report any wildfires or abandoned campfires immediately.
“Even one small spark can lead to a big wildfire. Stay alert and help protect your community and land,” N.W.T. Fire cautioned.
Officials advise anyone who would like more smoke information and forecasts to visit their fire smoke pages
Fort Smith officials also advised of localized smoke on Hwy 5, which thanks to the Wood Buffalo wildfire response, “made significant progress,” N.W.T. Fire posted this afternoon on social media.
Officials advised area residents and anyone travelling in the area to monitor road conditions at DriveNWT
As of Tuesday night, the transportation authority website still warned of”poor visibility due to wildfire in the area” as of 5:44 p.m.
