Residents of the Northwest Territories are still unable to return to their homes as a wildfire continues to grow in the area. The fire, which started on June 1st, has now spread to over 100,000 hectares and is only 5% contained.
According to the Northwest Territories Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the fire is currently burning about 30 kilometers southwest of the community of Kakisa. The department has issued an evacuation order for the area, and residents have been forced to seek shelter in nearby communities.
The fire has also caused the closure of Highway 1, the main route connecting the Northwest Territories to Alberta. The closure has caused disruptions in transportation and supply chains, as well as impacting the tourism industry in the area.
The Northwest Territories government has deployed over 100 firefighters, as well as air tankers and helicopters, to battle the blaze. However, strong winds and dry conditions have made it difficult to contain the fire.
In addition to the evacuation order, the government has also issued a fire ban for the entire territory, as well as a travel restriction for the area surrounding the fire. These measures are in place to ensure the safety of residents and to prevent the fire from spreading further.
The cause of the fire is still under investigation, but officials believe it may have been sparked by lightning. The Northwest Territories has been experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius, which has contributed to the rapid spread of the fire.
The Northwest Territories government is urging residents to stay informed and follow all evacuation orders and fire safety measures. They are also reminding residents to be cautious with any outdoor activities that could potentially start a fire.
As the wildfire continues to grow, the Northwest Territories government is working tirelessly to contain the blaze and ensure the safety of its residents. The situation is being closely monitored, and updates will be provided as the situation develops.
