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Whatì wildfire at 10,000 hectares; evacuation alert issued
Residents told to be ready to leave on short notice, but for now to stay inside to avoid dangerous levels of smoke
The community government of Whatì has issued an evacuation alert, meaning residents should be prepared to leave on short notice as a nearby wildfire continues to grow.
Fire ZF048, located about 15 kilometres southwest of Whatì, is now estimated at 10,000 hectares.
NWT Fire said in a Tuesday update that the blaze has spread northward due to winds from the south and southeast.
Air tankers have been working on the fire’s northern edge, while a structure protection team has been deployed to the community as a precaution.
“Drought conditions and very limited precipitation have made managing this wildfire extremely challenging since it received initial attack,” say NWT Fire.
At this stage, residents should stay alert for further directions and pack an emergency bag with food, water, medications, and important documents.
If an evacuation order is issued, residents will be asked to leave as soon as possible.
The Tłı̨chǫ Government has advised citizens to stay home — and to utilize protective masks and air purifiers at home — due to the air quality being at unhealthy levels.
All Behchokǫ̀ and Whatì offices, daycares and programs will remain closed.
Please keep your activities limited while going outside, utilize protective masks and air purifiers at home.
