Sécurité publique - Public Safety

Special Bulletin – May 20, 2022, 17:00: Information About Ending Yellowknife Evacuation Centre Accommodations

Public Safety Bulletin

YELLOWKNIFE (MAY 20, 2022; 17:00pm) -- Demand for overnight accommodations has ramped down – with those still accessing overnight spaces expected to leave tomorrow. 

With this development, Yellowknife evacuation centre overnight accommodations are being stood down for now. 

Timeline 

  • Friday May 20 will be the last overnight stay. 
  • The last breakfast service will be on Saturday, May 21. 
  • The last bus from Yellowknife to Hay River will leave tomorrow morning. 
  • Individuals at the evacuation centre have been informed as of today. 

Ongoing services for displaced folks still in town

While overnight stays and consistent staffing will be stood down, lunch and dinner will still be made available to folks still in town who need it. 

The Evacuation Centre site, now located at the Ed Jeske arena surface at the Yellowknife Multiplex, will remain open through the May long weekend to provide food, donations, and information. 

Donations will also still be accepted from 12-6pm at the evacuation centre on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. 

Other options for evacuees

The Hay River evacuation centre can accommodate individuals for overnight stays. The Town of Hay River asks that anyone who wishes to stay there call 1-833-699-0188 before arrival.

Individuals continue to be accommodated in Enterprise, Fort Smith, and Fort Providence – with additional assistance being offered by Fort Resolution and Fort Simpson. 

Reassessing 

This will be the approach through Tuesday May 24. We will reassess short-term evacuation needs at that time. 

Staying vigilant

Should the need arise, an evacuation centre in Yellowknife can be stood back up on short notice. 

Getting help

If you need a hand or have questions registering for disaster assistance, pathfinders in Yellowknife will be at the Municipal and Community Affairs North Slave regional office during regular office hours next week at 1st Floor, Laing Building in Yellowknife. 

They remain available by phone at 867-767-9161 ext. 21031 between 830am - 430pm. 

For more information

Mike Westwick

Information Officer

NWT Emergency Management Organization 

Mike_Westwick@gov.nt.ca 

867-688-0958