A change in wind direction overnight has protected Fort Simpson, N.W.T., from the most severe impacts of a sprawling, uncontained wildfire that led to the evacuation of the town on Sunday. Forrest Tower, the fire information officer overseeing the Fort Simpson fire, mentioned in a recent update to CBC News that in certain areas, the fire was approximately 300 meters away from Highway 1, which runs alongside the community.
Tower explained that the fire’s close proximity could potentially decrease the risk to the community. Despite initial concerns, the current scenario is viewed as one of the more favorable outcomes. Tower expressed confidence that unless there are strong winds or significant weather changes, the fire is expected to remain at a distance from the town.
The wildfire, identified as FS016, has expanded to around 13,000 hectares in size and has crossed the highway west of Fort Simpson, moving towards the island where the town is situated. Earlier on Tuesday, reports indicated that the fire had encroached into the Fort Simpson landfill, with ongoing damage assessments underway.
Due to thick smoke hindering aerial operations and poor visibility impeding ground crews, efforts to combat the fire were limited. As a result, a shelter-in-place order was issued to residents who had not already evacuated to Yellowknife.
Gilbert and Mary Jane Cazon, who opted to remain in Fort Simpson, described how dense smoke engulfed the sky on Monday evening as winds directed towards the community intensified, raising concerns about the fire’s proximity. Fortunately, a shift in wind direction steered the fire away from the town, providing relief to the residents.
With improved conditions, firefighters are now better positioned to address the fire’s edges more aggressively, utilizing controlled ignition and aerial support. However, challenges persist, and there is a considerable amount of work left to be done. The possibility of residents returning to the town remains slim due to ongoing fire risks along exit routes.
Additionally, the local health center has been closed to the general public, offering services exclusively to firefighting personnel and emergency responders. Evacuees are currently being accommodated in Yellowknife, where lodging availability is limited. The City of Yellowknife has announced free public transit services for registered evacuees.
The region continues to face escalating fire risks, with over 100 wildfires currently active. Unfavorable weather conditions, including hot and dry weather, coupled with frequent lightning strikes, are exacerbating the fire situation across the territory. Highway closures have been enforced due to new fires encroaching on critical roadways, restricting travel routes for residents and emergency personnel alike.