(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 out-of-control fire expanded Sunday evening, growing from nine to more than 8 square miles.
However, no burned structures were reported.
“We haven’t lost any homes or buildings,” Fort Good Hope Chief Collin Pierrot said 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.
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 Deline First Nation.
Mr. Pierrot thanked the residents who offered to welcome the evacuees on site.
The territorial government has not provided a timeline for when residents will be able to return home.
“Once we have the perimeter secured, the fire under control and it 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 greeted with a hot meal and lodging.
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.
