News

An evacuation order has been issued for Liidlii Kue and Fort Simpson after a wildfire broke out near the airport on Friday. Evacuees from the two communities are being welcomed to the city of Yellowknife, to take shelter at the Multiplex at 41 Kam Lake Road.

FS015 has expanded northwards of Wrigley but remains about 12 km north of the community, say NWT Fire officials as of their latest report 3 p.m. Sunday.“The fire grew significantly to the north and somewhat to the west and will be highly visible from the community, but has not moved closer to town,” said Wildland fire crews.

After ten new fires were detected in the N.W.T., Wildland Fire officials issued a bulletin warning that an out of control fire has advanced within 12 km north of the community of Wrigley. Officials advised that as of 6:45 p.m. on Saturday, FS015 had not advanced closer. “At this time, the fire has not moved closer to Wrigley, and current wind conditions are favourable.” Six airtankers are actioning the fire.

With FS016 expanding overnight Friday about 7 km east of the Fort Simpson airport, an evacuation alert remains in effect for Liidlii Kue First Nation and Fort Simpson, says NWT Fire. Wildland firefighters say FS016 has not advanced further, the blaze remains out of control.

As a precautionary measure, the health and social services authority relocated long-term care residents from Fort Simpson to the Łıwegǫ̀atì Building in Yellowknife on Friday evening. According to public message posted by the authority, the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution.”

On Friday evening, Wildland and community officials placed Fort Simpson and Liidlii Kue First Nation on an evacuation alert. They are advising the public that conditions could change quickly for a wildfire spotted Friday near the community airport.

Dene National Chief George Mackenzie said renewed federal attention to the water crisis facing First Nations communities is welcome, but added that the latest bill on clean drinking water was developed and introduced without the “consultation, cooperation, or consent” of First Nations.

Premiers from Canada’s three northern territories met this week for the Northern Premiers Forum this week to discuss the issues facing northern communities.

The City of Yellowknife is asking residents and trail-users to weigh in on the planned improvements to the Niven Lake Ravine Trail.