Wildland crews said that fire ZF048 remains about 8 km from the Whati airport and 7 km from the community, but has seen and may continue to see significant growth to the south.
The fire was last estimated by crews to be located about 8 km from the Whati airport and about 7 km from the community.
Mike Westwick, with NWT Fire told True North FM that heavy winds persist and are expected today.
“Winds are expected from the north-northwest today, 15 km per hour, gusting 20 to 30 km per hour. Levels of moisture in the air to stay at around 40 to 45 per cent – mild burning conditions and favourable winds today for the community of Whatı̀,” said officials.
Weather conditions are predicted to provide some relief soon.
“Tomorrow, winds expected to be variable and light, with slightly elevated levels of moisture in the air. Another mild burning day,” said crews.
Early next week, the forecast is calling for temperatures to rise again along with heightened wind activity, which could increase fire risks.
“Tuesday may be a critical day as forecasts call for temperatures to heat back up to 20, levels of moisture to begin to fall, and winds switch to south, 20 km per hour gusting up to 25 to 45 km per hour,” said officials.
NWT Fire reported today that the community of Whatı̀ has the potential to be at threat due to this wildfire, but said the fire is not expected to reach the community today or tomorrow given expected weather conditions
Wildland crews said that the community has seen and may continue to see, significant growth to the south, but there are no losses of cabins or homes reported at this time.
Firefighters are continuing to action the fire, with air support making drops at the fire’s north and east flanks to combat the wildfire intensity and to decrease the chance of possible spread towards the community.
NWT Fire reported that structure protection has been set up at the community’s edge. Sprinklers are being run at scheduled periods throughout the day to ensure the system is ready to activate in case the fire approaches.
“Heavy equipment is working to create breaks in fuel behind residential neighbourhoods at the north of the community to reduce potential wildfire intensity should the fire encroach,” said officials.
“An ignition operation – carefully, intentionally set fire designed to burn off vegetation in the fire’s path and prevent its growth towards the community – may be undertaken today if conditions allow,” said officials.
Because of the size of the fire, under the expected weather conditions, a direct attack has been deemed to be unsafe and also ineffective
The city of Yellowknife is welcoming community members of Whatì who are evacuating due to the wildfire ZF048.
The Fieldhouse reception center is open and has beds, access to showers, and essential facilities.
All evacuees are asked to sign in at the Tłı̨chǫ reception desk, located on site until 10:00 p.m. and re-opening at 6:30 a.m.
City officials announced they are working with GNWT departments through the North Slave Regional Emergency Management Organization to coordinate resources and to provide needed support.
The Behchokǫ̀ Sports Plex is also open as an evacuation center, where evacuees from Whati can register to receive further instructions and information.
The Multiplex gym and the Fieldhouse will temporarily be unavailable for public use until further notice as the centre will be used to help the evacuees.
Anyone who would like more information and updates on the Yellowknife evacuation center hours and how to assist evacuees can head to the city’s website and Facebook page
