NWT Emergency Response Update – July 18, 2026 @ 18:00

New Bulletins will be released on an as-needed basis, when new information becomes available.

Status of Evacuation Notices, Alerts, and Orders

Wrigley – Evacuation Order

• Wrigley remains under Evacuation Order. It is not yet safe to return to Wrigley. The wildfire situation is dynamic, and at this time, no return date has been discussed.
• The Evacuation Order was given by the community of Wrigley on June 29, 2026.
• For community updates, go to the Wrigley Community Facebook page (private Facebook group). 

Fort Simpson – Evacuation Alert

• The Evacuation Order in place since June 28, 2026 for Fort Simpson was downgraded to an Evacuation Alert on July 18, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.
• Fort Simpson evacuees can now return home. Air transportation was arranged today for those who required assistance returning from Yellowknife. Return flights have now concluded.
• Residents should stay aware of current conditions and remain prepared in the event that wildfire activity in the area changes.
• Please review this booklet, which provides guidance, checklists and tips for keeping yourself safe and healthy as you return home and begin to clean up and assess damage: RETURNING HOME SAFELY AFTER A WILDFIRE
• For community updates, go to the Village of Fort Simpson webpage.

For the latest updates on NWT Notices, alerts and orders visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/notices-alerts-and-orders

NWT Wildfire Status

Follow NWT Fire for updates on wildfire:

• NWT Fire Wildfire Update 
• NWT Fire Facebook page

NWT Highways, Airports and Ferries

• Highway conditions can change quickly with no warning.
• Always check DriveNWT.ca before you travel.

Information for Fort Simpson Evacuees Returning Home

All personal accommodations outside of the evacuation centres are at the expense and responsibility of the individual and are not eligible for reimbursement. The Yellowknife Evacuation Centre is now closed.

The flights today were the only transportation being provided by the Village of Fort Simpson. If you missed your scheduled flight or chose not to register for one of the provided flights, you are responsible for making your own travel arrangements at your own expense.

A guide for returning home safely is available here. Inside you’ll find tips, checklists and guidance to keep you safe and healthy as you assess, clean up and return to routines.

Although the immediate threat to Fort Simpson is reduced, wildfire activity may continue in the surrounding area. Residents should expect:

• Smoke to remain present for an extended period.
• Firefighters and heavy equipment operating throughout the region.
• Possible travel delays.
• Continued wildfire suppression activities.
• The possibility that evacuation measures could be reinstated if conditions deteriorate.

Residents should expect that some municipal and commercial services may not immediately return to normal operations.

For information on the Fort Simpson Health Centre’s reopening plan and restoration of services, please read the NTHSSA’s latest update, found here.

If you are still making your return to the community of Fort Simpson, please remember to drive cautiously, obey all traffic control measures, and watch for emergency vehicles and firefighting equipment. Always check DriveNWT.ca before you travel.

Services and Supports for Evacuees

Updated information on services available to evacuees can be found here: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/services-and-supports-evacuees.

Emergency Evacuation Relief Program – All evacuees

• Find information about the Emergency Evacuation Relief Program (EERP), the Emergency Allowance benefits health care, mental health support, child and family services and other GNWT programs online.

United Way

• The United Way continues to work alongside emergency response teams to support evacuees from Wrigley.
• They have activated their Emergency Response Funding Program to get fast, flexible funding to local organizations supporting evacuees and reception centres.
• NGOs and Indigenous governments can submit a funding request to ed@nwt.unitedway.ca to further support evacuees. Visit https://nwt.unitedway.ca

Find information about health care, mental health support, child and family services and other GNWT programs online.

Services for Wrigley Evacuees in Fort Smith

• A summary of services for Wrigley evacuees is available online. When you arrive in Fort Smith register at the Fort Smith Centennial Arena. There will be a place to sleep, food and people ready to help for as long as you need to be here.

For updated GNWT public safety information and information on supports and services for evacuees, visit www.gov.nt.ca/public-safety.