Hundreds of Wildfires Threaten Northwest Territories, Prompting Evacuation Orders and State of Emergency

Hundreds of wildfires in Canada’s Northwest Territories have led to the declaration of a state of emergency and the evacuation of the capital city of Yellowknife. The state of emergency allows for more resources to aid the 230 active fires in the region. The mayor of Yellowknife has issued a local state of emergency and evacuation order for some areas as the fires approach. Other cities, including Ndilo, Dettah, and Ingram Trail, are also under evacuation orders. Those unable to leave by road can register for evacuation flights. The fires have forced the evacuation of the town of Hay River and the closure of roads leading to Alberta and Yellowknife. A team from Alberta has been deployed to lay fire retardant and protect structures in the Hay River area. Evacuees from the South Slave region have been redirected to a reception center in St. Albert, Alberta. Smoke from the fires has led to an air quality alert in Minnesota. The Canadian Armed Forces have been mobilized to provide assistance to the Northwest Territories. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has spoken with the Northwest Territories Premier and pledged support.