Highway 3 opens; Tłı̨chǫ Highway stays closed as evacuations continue

The North Slave Region’s only road link to the south has re-opened, but could close at any time, says Drive NWT

“Please drive with caution as wildfires continue to impact driving conditions due to poor visibility. Be prepared for delays and potential road closures,” stated a release on Monday morning.

There will also be a lot of traffic, as the highway has been closed since Saturday afternoon.

Meanwhile, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs Vince McKay toured the reception centre for Fort Providence evacuees in Hay River on the weekend.”

He stated in a social media post that as MLA for Hay River South, he is proud of the community “and how we’ve stood up through everything we’ve faced,” in recent years with disaster and evacuations.

“Within hours, the Town of Hay River set up a reception centre with sleeping accommodations, food, and resources for Fort Providence residents,” he stated. “Thank you to Town staff, GNWT employees and community volunteers who have stepped up to support the town and Fort Providence.

“Thank you to our fire department for sending a team of structural firefighters to help protect Fort Providence. Working together makes us stronger. Also big thanks to United Way NWT  for helping the town and the residents of Fort Providence with much needed quick financial assistance.”

NWT Fire has not provided an update on fire Fire SS014 as of this post.

The satellite images below are not intended to show hectare by hectare fire growth, but to show the rough extent of the out-of-control fire as it pushes across Highway 3 from the Mackenzie Bison Range and into the Mackenzie Bison Sanctuary, home to some 700 wood bison. Fort Providence is seen at the bottom left.

The GNWT’s re-vamped Emergency Evacuation Relief Program provides one-time financial support to help mitigate the costs associated with evacuations due to natural disasters such as wildfires and flooding.

After much criticism following  the mass wildfire evacuations in 2023, the program now claims to be “easily accessible to all residents of the Northwest Territories, ensuring equitable support during emergencies,” states the GNWT.

Eligible residents who have evacuated their home community due to an official evacuation order will receive a one-time direct deposit payment as follows: $800 for residents aged 18 and over $400 for each dependent under the age of 18.

These funds are intended to assist with accommodation needs and everyday expenses such as groceries, gas, and other essentials.

Residents are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible, as payment will not be made to evacuees who register more than 14 days after an evacuation order is lifted.

NAKA Power stated on Monday morning power still remains on in Fort Providence and a team is on standby in Dory Point should it be needed.

“We are actively coordinating with emergency services to monitor the situation and respond to any developments. The safety of our community and the reliability of essential services remain our top priorities,” stated the utility.

And the NWT Health and Social Services Authority noted that with the Community Health and Social Services Centre in Fort Providence being closed, a mobile paramedic service is stationed in the community for first responders until services can be re-established at the health centre.

“This team will remain on site as long as conditions permit but may be withdrawn at any moment if safety becomes a concern,” stated the Authority. “Emergency services personnel in community will be able to reach the paramedic by radio in the event of any communication outages.”

If residents wish to speak with a Registered Nurse for general health advice, they are encouraged to call 811.

For residents who have evacuated to Hay River and are in need of primary care services, please call or present to the local health clinic.

In an emergency, call 911. If you require child and family services support, there is staff on site in Hay River at the evacuation centre.

“The NTHSSA also wants to remind residents to prioritize their mental health during this challenging time. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, your feelings are valid. If you have concerns about stress, mood, sleep, or if you or a family member are struggling, support is available.”