Wildfire shuts down Hwy 1 at Hwy 3 intersection

GNWT issues order Saturday afternoon as heat wave creates extreme fire danger


Highway 1 and Highway 3 intersection. (James O’Connor/CKLB)

The main route between Fort Simpson and the rest of the NWT was forced to close by wildfires Saturday afternoon at the Highway 3 turnoff.

Highway 1 through to the Jean Marie Access Road at Kilometre 375) remains closed until wildfire activity subsides.

The Sambaa K’e access road is also affected by this closure.

For updates, check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the most up to date information.

NWT Fire issued an update mid-afternoon on the state of wildfires.

The most serious appears to be FS010 20 kilometres south of Wrigley on west side of Mackenzie River.

This fire grew to the north again overnight due to strong southerly winds.

Crews are monitoring its growth closely and a Values Protection Crews will be working on critical infrastructure along the river and containment plans, read a release.

Wrigley is not currently at risk but there will be heavy smoke on Highway 1 and in the community.

Fire closing Highway 1 is marked by triangle at left. (Image courtesy GNWT)

 

About the Author

James O'Connor
James O’Connor joined CKLB 101.9 FM at the start of 2024, after working as a journalist, photo editor and managing editor at newspapers in Manitoba and the Northwest Territories. James also has experience in politics, arts, service clubs and the NWT’s non-profit sector. At this point in his lengthy career, James is thrilled to be working at such a unique media outlet and always welcomes notes from listeners at: james.oconnor@cklbradio.com.