SA国际影视传媒

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GNWT fighting five wildfires as extreme summer dry conditions set in

Four new wildfires discovered Thursday in Dehcho region; largest one 300 hectares in size sitting 30 km outside Saamba K'e
nwt-fire
NWT Fire reported there have been four new wildfires discovered on May 29. Photo courtesy of NWT Fire

There are now five active wildfires in the Northwest Territories, but there is no immediate risk to the public, save for smoke.

An update from NWT Fire info was released shortly after 5 p.m. on Thursday. and there are four new fires burning in the NWT.

Largest among the fires is FS002-25, which sits about 30 km southwest of Sambaa KSA国际影视传媒檈. Currently 300 hectares in size and out of control, the fire was spotted Thursday. 

Wildfire information officer Thomas Bentham said crews were responding by setting up sprinkler systems on cabins and other assets which may be threatened. 

A second fire discovered today, FS001-25, stands approximately 80 hectares in size and is considered out of control. It's 74 km east of Ford Liard and is not an immediate threat.

Near Fort Smith, SS007-25 was spotted yesterday 20 kilometres North of the Salve River. Since then, it has grown from seven hectares to 58 hectares in size and is out of control. Airtankers could not attack the fire today due to strong winds, but ground crews and helicopters are on scene to limit its growth. There is no threat at this time.

Two remaining fires sit just 13 and 14 km respectively north of the B.C. border and both were discovered Thursday. 

The first, FS003-25, is 15 hectares and out of control, while the second, FS004-25, is only one hectare. Crews have begun an attack of FS003-25. 

In both cases, Bentham said crews have structural protection equipment on hand if the fires threaten any assets.

"The Dehcho, North and South Slave regions are experiencing extreme wildfire weather," stated Bentham. "ItSA国际影视传媒檚 hot, dry, with gusty winds, creating a hazardous fire environment that significantly increases the risk of wildfire ignition and spread. This weather is expected to continue into the weekend.

"Please exercise caution while enjoying a campfire and when finished, ensure it is completely extinguished."

Bentham said southerly winds were carrying smoke into the NWT as well.

 



About the Author: Eric Bowling, Local Journalism Initiative

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