NWT Fire reports that FS014 Northwest of Jean Marie River First Nation has not moved closer to the community since yesterday, when it was reported to be about 15 km away. On the other side of the blaze’s front, Wildland crews advise the fire is within 100 to 200 metres east of Highway 1 at km 454.
Officials say that “west to northwest winds today may put pressure on containment efforts on the south end of the fire”
Winds from the southeast are expected at 5 km per hour sustained and gusting at 10 to 15 km per hour which could cause fire growth to the north.
In an update posted at 1 pm today, crews reported that FS014 had not reached Highway 1 as yet. Wildland teams said they are seeking to use the Highway as an anchor to suppress the fire and hold it east of the highway.
Officials report that the fire is continuing to burning mostly on the surface without much burning in the treetops on the west flank (closest to the Highway and Liard River).
NWT Fire advised that crews and aircrafts will be out working nearby Highway 1 close to the Fort Simpson Ferry Landing. Officials are advising travellers to slow down and be aware while driving as crews may be crossing the highway. Wildland crews are asking the public not to stop and watch, and to give crews space to keep safe. Officials advised that flying drones of any size is illegal and could endanger crews working in helicopters and airtankers.
An ignition operation from Hwy 1 that had been planned was not completed yesterday due to humidity, said crews.
“The area was too humid for a clean burn. Ignition plans remain in-place to support holding the fire to the east of Highway 1 and away from the Liard River,” said NWT Fire.
Crews have cut fire line from KM 453 and 454 to the fire’s nearest edges. Wildland crews are mobilizing a response with helicopter bucket support to hold the fire to the east of the highway.
“Air support will continue to make drops on the south end of the fire (closest to Jean Marie River) to hold and bolster containment lines to prevent further growth towards Jean Marie River,” said NWT Fire.
The community of Jean Marie River remains on an Evacuation Alert.
Sprinklers are in place on structures on the far side of the Mackenzie River from Fort Simpson and within Jean Marie River First Nation as a contingency.
“Structure protection specialists have demobilized, but the equipment remains and local crews are able to run the equipment if necessary,” said NWT Fire.
