Tulip Lake fire remains moderately active after crews deploy helicopter pilots

NWT Fire reports that the Tulip Lake wildfire near the border of Alta. remains “moderately active” to the north and west due to wind gusts from the south. 

“Firefighting crews continued to establish containment lines on the west side of the fire, with the help of helicopters spilling water, to prevent the fire from progressing to the community. A thermal imaging analysis of the perimeter of the fire revealed moderate growth in the fire,” said NWT Fire today.

Protective Services assured there is no threat to the nearby town of Fort Smith, but a general preparedness reminder stands in place. 

One new wildfire is active in the North Slave region. Hot, dry conditions with gusty winds are creating an environment that can contribute to the risk of wildfire start and spread. Officials caution that a fire weather warning remains in place for much of the N.W.T. region, including fire bans in Hay River, Fort Smith, Métis Cabins and Campground, Wood Bufffalo Park along with bans across numerous parks in the territories.

In the South Slave region, two wildfires remain active, including the Tulip Lake fire, approximately 13,183 hectares at last estimate, said Fire crews. The fire is located between Schaefer Lake and Tulip Lake, 28 km east of Fort Smith. Fire officials said this wildfire poses no threat to the community at this time.

Fire crews have been monitoring on both sides of the border and placing protections around nearby structures.

Officials report that the fire remains “moderately active” to the north and west due to wind gusts from the south. 

“Today, winds are expected to come from the west, moving the fire to the east,” said NWT Fire.

Fire officials reported that the smoke complicated fire suppression efforts by the crews on the ground.

Crews responding to the fire include aerial ignition teams. Helicopter pilots were also deployed today, which made progress in connecting lockdown lines to wet areas. 

“Ignitions on the west and south flanks connecting the fire to wet areas and on the perimeter of the fire are planned if weather conditions are favourable,” said officials. 

Crews said that structural protection work is taking place on both sides of the border with sprinkler systems prepared for use if needed.

“As a precautionary measure, crews, with the assistance of Fort Smith Protective Services and Fort Fitzgerald personnel, successfully deployed high-speed sprinkler systems in both communities. A test of the system is scheduled for tomorrow,” said NWT Fire. 

NWT Fire provided a separate Wildfire Information Bulletin about this wildfire, which they explained will be made available daily

https://www.gov.nt.ca/ecc/services/wildfire-update/en/fire/tulip-lake-fire

Another wildfire, about 24 km northwest of Fort Smith, along the Slave River is being contained. Fire crews reported no growth on this fire, which has been declared under control as of this morning, said officials.

“Crews have set up sprinklers on cabins and structures as needed. There is no risk to values in the area at this time,” NWT Fire said.

A general preparedness reminder issued by Fort Smith Protective Services and the Town of Fort Smith remains in place.

“While there is no immediate risk, we encourage all residents to review their evacuation plans as a precaution. Know your exits, keep essential documents and supplies accessible, and stay informed through official Town and government updates,” officials cautioned. 

Fort Smith Protective Services and the Town of Fort Smith said updates can be found on a variety of platforms, including Facebook, the Fort Smith website and Alertable.

Officials report another wildfire, located about 24 km northwest of Fort Smith, remains at approximately 325 hectares in size and said the fire poses no risk at this time. 

Another wildfire, located about 13 km west of Highway 1, is estimated to be 11,358 hectares in size and is considered out of control, but officials said that it poses no threats to communities, cabins, or infrastructure at this time. 

NWT Fire cautioned drivers travelling along Highway 1 of smoke present along the route from wildfire. Officials urged travellers to check highway conditions here before heading out by visiting the Drive NWT website  https://drivenwt.ca.

In the North Slave region, NWT Fire reported that a new lightning-caused fire was spotted yesterday (June 5) and was about four hectares in size at the last estimate. 

The wildfire is located about 12 km southeast of Blatchford Lake Lodge, about 5 km north of the Great Slave Lake.

Another wildfire in the North Slave region, located about 2.5 km south of  south of Jennejohn Lake and 28 km east of Dettah is about 11 hectares in size and is considered under control 

“This lightning-caused fire was rapidly attacked by aircraft and crews to limit its growth. This fire is now under control thanks to the swift and effective action by crews and aircraft,” said officials.

In the Dehcho region, two wildfires are currently active and considered out of control, including one fire that is 1,423.10 in size, located about 30 km Southwest of Sambaa k’e. 

NWT Fire said that this wildfire poses no threats to communities or infrastructure at this time.

“This is a lightning-caused, out-of-control fire. Crews have been setting up sprinklers on cabins and other values which may be threatened,” said NWT Fire on their website.

“Smoke may be visible from Sambaa K’e and Fort Liard due to wildfires,” added officials.

Another wildfire located about 74 km East of Fort Liard is about 3,653.60 hectares in size and is considered out of control. The fire currently poses no threats to communities, cabins, or infrastructure, said Fire crew.

“Crews continue to monitor this lightning-caused fire as it progresses naturally,” said officials who caution that smoke may be visible from Sambaa K’e and Fort Liard due to wildfires.