(Fort Good Hope) A wildfire that forced the evacuation of a remote Northwest Territories community continued to grow Monday, but strong winds are expected to keep the flames away.
Firefighters said warmer temperatures were likely to increase fire activity near Fort Good Hope. The weather is expected to remain the same on Tuesday. No precipitation is expected over the next few days.
The community was ordered to evacuate on Saturday, when the fire was less than two kilometers away, and it later reached the village.
The uncontrollable fire spread on Sunday evening, growing from nine to more than 13 square kilometers.
However, no burned structures were reported.
“We have not lost any houses or buildings,” said Fort Good Hope Chief Collin Pierrot during a press briefing.
Just over 100 of the community’s 500 residents remained behind to help put out the fires, he added.
The Government of the Northwest Territories has sent additional fire crews to the region.
PHOTO JOSH FERGUSON, CANADIAN PRESS ARCHIVES
Volunteers unload and set up cots at the Dennis Drolet Memorial Hall before the arrival of evacuees from Fort Good Hope, Norman Wells, Saturday, June 15, 2024.
Those on the ground patrolled the perimeter and attacked hot spots. Air tankers and helicopters also dropped buckets of retardant and water to slow the fire’s growth.
Most of the evacuees were sent south to Norman Wells, while others were transferred to a nearby fishing camp and to Deline First Nation.
Mr. Pierrot thanked the residents who offered to welcome the evacuees on site.
Everyone who is helping right now is going through a lot themselves, separate from fighting the fire. We still have families to think about.
Colin Pierrot
The territorial government has not provided a timeline for when residents will be able to return home.
PHOTO JOSH FERGUSON, CANADIAN PRESS ARCHIVES
A Government of the Northwest Territories firefighting plane lands in Norman Wells, Sunday June 16, 2024.
“Once we have the perimeter secured, the fire under control and it is deemed under control, I think it would be good news for residents to come back,” said Frank McKay, public information officer for the fires.
Evacuees sent to Norman Wells were welcomed with a hot meal and accommodation.
Mayor Frank Pope noted it was the first time in 20 years the city had to accommodate wildfire evacuees. The city opened its arena to shelter those who have no place to go.
The village of Norman Wells has banned fires until further notice.
Wildfires have also put pressure on its fuel supply.
Norman Wells normally relies on a barge to transport goods and fuel when the winter road is closed. But low water levels in the region have disrupted shipping, Pope said, leaving air transport as the only option, which can be costly.