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 [September 24, 2024 5pm] – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is notifying the public of a scheduled maintenance outage by Northwestel, which will impact internet and cellular services in the Northwest Territories (NWT) on September 25, 2024, between 1:00 a.m. and 07:00 a.m. MT.

The GNWT is taking steps to ensure that 9-1-1 services remain operational during this time. Residents should still be able to call 9-1-1 if their phone system is operational. You can also contact the RCMP directly using their respective phone lines for your community if you have a landline or by proceeding directly to the RCMP detachment.

If you are unable to reach your local health clinic or hospital by phone during a health emergency, go in person for any urgent needs. For non-emergencies, contact 8-1-1 to speak with a registered nurse and receive guidance regarding your current health situation.

[August 21, 2024, 4:00 pm] - The Délı̨nę Got’ı̨nę Government has officially lifted the evacuation notice due to Wildfires VQ10 and VQ11, as of 4:00 PM on August 21, 2024.

  • This means there is reduced risk to the community. For the latest information on this wildfire, please visit NWT Fire.

  • The Délı̨nę Got’ı̨nę Government is advising residents to stay vigilant. Although the immediate threat has subsided, wildfire response activities are expected to continue in the area for the coming days.

  • Residents are also asked to continue to follow any directions or advisories issued by local authorities or emergency personnel in your area.

  • For information provided by the community government please go to the Community Government’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/DelineGotineGovernment/

[July 11, 2024, 1:15 pm] - 9-1-1 Service restored

In case of emergency you can call 9-1-1 as the service has been restored.

[July 11, 2024 – 10:30 a.m.] - 9-1-1 Service Alert

The GNWT is alerting the public that there is a disruption to telecommunication systems in the NWT including 9-1-1 service and other emergency phone lines. People attempting to call emergency services may not be able to get through calling 9-1-1.

When 9-1-1 is not available, alternative phone numbers to reach emergency services will be activated:

  • 867-765-8337
  • 867-446-6149
  • 867-446-6151

If you are unable to get through on any number, please go directly to the RCMP detachment or Health Centre.

The public will be notified when updates are available.

[July 10, 2024 – 11:30 a.m.] - Evacuation Notice lifted for Edzo

The community government of Behchokǫ̀ officially lifted the evacuation notice for Edzo due to Wildfire ZF011, as of 10:30 AM on July 10, 2024.

  • This means there is reduced risk to the community. For the latest information on this wildfire, please visit NWT Fire (ECC) ZF011-24.  
  • The community government is advising residents to stay vigilant. Although the immediate threat has subsided, wildfire response activities are expected to continue in the area for the coming days.
  • Residents are also asked to continue to follow any directions or advisories issued by local authorities or emergency personnel in your area.
  • For information provided by the community government see the Kǫ̀ Gocho Sportsplex Centre Facebook page.

[July 6 2024 – 12:15 p.m.] - Re-entry information for all Fort Good Hope evacuees

The Charter Community of K’asho Got’ine / Fort Good Hope has lifted the Evacuation Order and State of Local Emergency and all evacuees are cleared to return home.

Information about returning home is being provided to evacuees at the school gym in Norman Wells and is also available at the links below.

Thank you to all residents for staying safe and listening to the guidance provided by the Local and Regional Emergency Management Organizations.  We know it has been a difficult time being away from your home and encourage you to seek health supports as required.  For more information about all health supports available to Fort Good Hope evacuees, please see this public notice from the NT Health and Social Services Authority. 

When repatriation flights are completed the Regional and Territorial Emergency Management Organizations will stand down for this event.

How will evacuees get home?

  • Two planes will be doing repatriation flights to bring evacuees in Deline and Norman Wells back to Fort Good Hope. Flights are scheduled beginning mid-day today and are scheduled to continue until approximately 8pm tonight.  
  • If you are a registered evacuee, arrangements will automatically be made to arrange you a flight home. Someone from the GNWT will call you with your flight information. Calls to registered evacuees began on July 6, 2024.
  • Flight schedules and manifests may change depending on circumstances.  Exact details are posted at the Norman Wells school gym and will be communicated to officials in Deline.
  • If you are not registered, Fort Good Hope residents should call Janelle Pierrot at 867-445-5066 to ensure they are listed on the flight manifest.   
  • People are asked to limit baggage on repatriation flights to 2 bags per person.
  • The Fort Good Hope community government has placed Fort Good Hope under a prohibition order – the community government will be checking baggage upon arrival in the community.

Continued firefighting efforts

Dangerous trees

  • The fire burned strong and deep in the area. Trees may fall down easily in places you usually use the land.
  • It is extremely dangerous to travel through burned areas right now. Avoid if you can, and if you must, always keep at least two treelengths between yourself and the nearest tree.

Ash pits and heat

  • This fire burned deep in the ground. There may be areas within the burnt area where there are hot ash pits which could hurt you if you fall in them. Avoid burned areas for now.

More information for Fort Good Hope evacuees:

[July 5, 3:30 p.m.] - Re-entry information for Fort Good Hope evacuees

The Fort Good Hope community government has cleared essential workers to return to the community today and prepare for the re-entry of all evacuees.

An Evacuation Order and State of Local Emergency remain in place for Fort Good Hope and are expected to be lifted as early as Saturday, July 6.

Information about returning home is being provided to evacuees at the school gym in Norman Wells and is also available at the links below.

How will evacuees get home?

  • Repatriation flights are being planned for the 170 evacuees currently in Norman Wells, and 20 evacuees in Délı̨nę.
  • If you are a registered evacuee, arrangements will automatically be made to arrange you a flight home. Someone from the GNWT will call you with your flight information.
  • Flight manifests will be posted at the Norman Wells school gym once flights are scheduled.
  • If you are not registered, Fort Good Hope residents should call Janelle Pierrot at 867-445-5066 to ensure they are listed on the flight manifest.   
  • People are asked to limit baggage on repatriation flights to 2 bags per person.
  • The Fort Good Hope community government has placed Fort Good Hope under a prohibition order – the community government will be checking baggage upon arrival in the community.

Continued firefighting efforts

Dangerous trees

  • The fire burned strong and deep in the area. Trees may fall down easily in places you usually use the land.
  • It is extremely dangerous to travel through burned areas right now. Avoid if you can, and if you must, always keep at least two treelengths between yourself and the nearest tree.

Ash pits and heat

  • This fire burned deep in the ground. There may be areas within the burnt area where there are hot ash pits which could hurt you if you fall in them. Avoid burned areas for now.

More information for Fort Good Hope evacuees:

[July 2, 12:30 p.m.] - Evacuation Notice – Edzo

Residents and visitors of Edzo are asked to prepare for possible emergency due to increased wildfire risk in the area.

Evacuation Notices, Alerts and Orders for a community are issued by the Community Government. Please refer to your local community government for specific details for your community.

  • Level 1 - Evacuation Notice: To advise you that an emergency event, such as a wildfire or flood, may present an increased risk to your community and could endanger life or property. 
  • Level 2 - Evacuation Alert: Get ready to leave on short notice. 
  • Level 3 - Evacuation Order:  Leave as soon as possible. Follow all directions from officials. 

[June 30 4:30 p.m.] - Evacuation Orders - Stay at your own risk

The Territorial Emergency Management Organization (TEMO) would like to remind all residents of what to expect if you choose to go against an evacuation order. Knowing your risks in an emergency will help you make informed decisions.

During an emergency response, decisions are made following this priority order:

  1. Protect the health and safety of first responders.
  2. Save lives.
  3. Reduce suffering.
  4. Protect public health.
  5. Protect public infrastructure.
  6. Protect property.
  7. Protect the environment.
  8. Reduce economic and social losses.

Residents who choose not to follow an evacuation order should understand they stay at their own risk.

Responders may not be able to come to your rescue if they don’t know that you need help, or if it is unsafe for them to attempt to do so. Please follow the directions of emergency personnel and officials for the safety of yourself and others. 

Fort Good Hope remains under an evacuation order. We can confirm from all levels of emergency management that there are no plans to move any evacuees back to the community at this time.

Be Ready: Understand and plan for evacuations

[June 29 4:30 p.m.] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

Fort Good Hope community leadership have extended the State of Local Emergency for their community through to July 13, 2024. Fort Good Hope remains under evacuation order and support is available for evacuees in Norman Wells, Délı̨nę, and at a fish camp near Fort Good Hope. 

Local and regional emergency management authorities in Fort Good Hope and Norman Wells would like to remind all evacuees that there is a zero-tolerance policy for drug and alcohol use in evacuation centres. There is also zero tolerance for disruptive or abusive behaviour at any of the evacuee hosting accommodations.

Unfortunately, there have been incidents where illegal activity has threatened the safety of others. This behaviour cannot be tolerated, and anyone threatening the safety of others at evacuation centres or other evacuee accommodations may be asked to leave and may not be allowed back in. All illegal activity is being reported to and dealt with by the appropriate authorities.

The continued evacuation of Fort Good Hope is difficult on everyone involved. Please see NWT Fire for more information on efforts to protect the community from wildfire VQ001-24.

Health supports, including mental health supports, are available, including:

  • Anyone in Norman Wells can access the community counselling program by calling 867-444-6000.
  • Drop-in mental health supports are also available at the Health Centre in Norman Wells from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday (excluding holidays).
  • All NWT residents can call 811 or 1-844-259-1793 to speak with a registered nurse for general health advice or mental wellness support.
  • For more information about all health supports available to Fort Good Hope evacuees, please see this public advisory from the NT Health and Social Service Authority.
  • For more information on NTHSSA Emergency information and access to virtual mental health supports available for NWT residents please see: www.nthssa.ca/en/emergencies

Child and Family Services supports are available, including:

  • Anyone from an evacuated community who is currently in Norman Wells who is in need of Child and Family Services supports please contact (867) 444-6615.
  • For Child Protection matters, please call (867) 444-1142.

[June 27, 2024: 1:00 p.m.] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

Fort Good Hope has been under a State of Local Emergency, as well as an Evacuation Order, which has been in place since June 15.

Yesterday evening a public alert was re-issued advising remaining residents of Fort Good Hope to leave the community. This alert was issued at the request of the community.

The wildfire risk level remains stable and the Department of Environment and Climate Change (ECC) continues to action this wildfire. The incident is supported by a local firefighter brigade working alongside ECC.

For the latest information on this wildfire, please visit NWT Fire (ECC) - NWT Fire – VQ001-24

[June 25 4:35 p.m.] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

The Territorial Emergency Management Organization (TEMO) has moved to an Activation Level 1 – Monitoring. This is because conditions in Fort Good Hope are currently stable, and there are no outstanding requests for TEMO to support ongoing emergency response operations. TEMO will continue to monitor and share information as appropriate until conditions change.

Local Authorities remain in command of this incident, supported by the Sahtu Emergency Management Organization.

Fort Good Hope remains under Evacuation Order. 

[June 24, 2024: 4:00 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

The community of Fort Good Hope remains under Evacuation Order. Residents are being asked to remain where they are as long as they are safe. Evacuation centres and support for evacuees continue to be available in Norman Wells, Délı̨nę, and the Fish Camp near Fort Good Hope.

Local authorities remain in command of this incident, with support from the Sahtu Regional Emergency Management Organization. The Territorial Emergency Management Organization remains partially activated to monitor and support as needed.

People are working incredibly hard to protect the community of Fort Good Hope and to provide essential services to displaced residents.

For more information:

NWT Fire – VQ001-24

Health and Social Services available for Evacuees

Funding – Emergency Evacuation Relief Program

GNWT Financial Support Information

Town of Norman Wells (Facebook)

[June 20, 2024: 5:30 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

The Territorial and Sahtu Regional EMOs will remain activated over the weekend. The Sahtu REMO is connected and prepared to support impacted and host communities.  The next update will be on Monday, June 24, 2024, unless the situation changes.

[June 20, 2024: 3:30 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

EXTENSION OF EVACUATION ORDER FOR FORT GOOD HOPE

Fort Good Hope residents are advised the evacuation order remains in place. Residents of Fort Good Hope are required to remain evacuated from the area due to a wildfire.

[June 20, 2024: 11:00 am] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

The Fort Good Hope Local Emergency Management Organization (LEMO) continues to remain in command of the emergency response and evacuation of their residents.  The Sahtu Regional Emergency Management Organization (REMO) is fully activated and providing supports to the residents that are being hosted in the Town of Norman Wells and Community of Deline. The Town of Norman Wells is posting regular updates related to hosting on their social media [town of norman wells (facebook)]. 

The Territorial Emergency Management Organization (TEMO) is partially activated and fulfilling resources requests received by the REMO.  To date, TEMO actioned requests related to flights for evacuees and essential workers, and yesterday, TEMO actioned requests related to procuring wrist bands for evacuees and volunteer supplies such as vests and lanyards. 

[June 17, 2024: 10:00 am] - Emergency Evacuation Relief Program - Fort Good Hope

Residents of Fort Good Hope can apply to the Emergency Evacuation Funding Program for a one-time payment to help with the costs associated with their evacuation, such as immediate accommodation needs and everyday expenses such as groceries, gas, and other essentials.

For more information and to apply, please visit the GNWT Emergency Evacuation Relief Program funding page.

[June 16, 2024 3:00 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

The Regional Emergency Management Organization is supporting the Fort Good Hope Local Emergency Management Organization by organizing a charter to transport paramedics, water and sewer staff, and grocery store staff back to Fort Good Hope from Norman Wells to support essential services in Fort Good Hope. This plane will then bring more evacuees from Fort Good Hope to Deline for hosting. We are currently anticipating 6-7 evacuees on that flight, which is expected to be the only evacuation flight out of Fort Good Hope today.

As of right now, an estimated 94 people remain in Fort Good Hope. The next information update is expected Monday morning.

Sahtu fire update

NTHSSA update

Air quality for Fort Good Hope

[June 16, 2024: 10:15 am] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

There are no new evacuation flights scheduled for Fort Good Hope at this time. Plans to move some evacuees to Inuvik for hosting support have been stood down, as Norman Wells and Deline have been able to absorb all residents needing hosting, while others have self-evacuated to a fish camp near Fort Good Hope or other safe places throughout the Sahtu. The level of community care and support has been outstanding - and local authorities are maintaining the lead on this incident.

Sahtu fire update

 

[June 15, 2024: 11:15 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

All evacuation flights out of Fort Good Hope have been completed for the time being. In total, five planes completed 16 trips to bring approximately 240 passengers to Norman Wells. Hosting capacity in Norman Wells has been exhausted. Fourty evacuees will be flown from Norman Wells to Deline later tonight for hosting. Another evacuation centre is being stood up in Inuvik, and a flight is scheduled to transport evacuees requiring hosting supports there from Norman Wells Sunday morning.

The next information update is expected Sunday morning.

Sahtu fire update 

 


______________________________________________________________

[June 15, 2024: 8:30 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope – Update

Evacuation flights continue from Fort Good Hope, as the community is on evacuation order. All evacuees are currently expected to be routed to Norman Wells and Deline is on standby as a second host community as needed. The GNWT is coordinating five planes with a total capacity of 110 passengers, and plans to continue running planes back and forth as conditions allow until everyone who needs to leave the community is out. 

[June 15, 2024: 5:40 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope - Update

Evacuation flights are en route to Fort Good Hope, with expected arrival by 18:45. All evacuees are currently being directed to Norman Wells. Anyone in the community of Fort Good Hope should follow the instructions provided by the band office to pack a small bag, including important documents and medication, and muster at the band office. 

_______________________________________________________________

[June 15, 2024: 3:30 pm] - Evacuation Order - Fort Good Hope

This Evacuation Order is issued on behalf of Fort Good Hope.

The community of Fort Good Hope has placed residents on Evacuation Order.

  • Residents of Fort Good Hope are required to evacuate the area due to a wildfire in the area.
  • Evacuees must register at the Fort Good Hope Band Office.
  • Follow all directions of emergency officials and your Community Government.

Evacuation Notices, Alerts and Orders for a community are issued by the Community Government. Please refer to your local community government for specific details for your community.

  • Level 1 - Evacuation Notice: To advise you that an emergency event, such as a wildfire or flood, may present an increased risk to your community and could endanger life or property. 
  • Level 2 - Evacuation Alert: Get ready to leave on short notice. 
  • Level 3 - Evacuation Order:  Leave as soon as possible. Follow all directions from officials. 

[May 27, 2024: 9:00 am] - Highway 7 Open at the NWT/BC border

Highway 7 is now open at the NWT/BC border but conditions could change quickly due to wildfires on BC Highway 77. Always check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the most up to date closure info: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways  

[May 22, 2024: 2:00 pm] - Evacuation Notice lifted for Fort Liard

The community of Fort Liard has lifted their Evacuation Notice. This means there is reduced risk to the community due to wildfire.

A fire ban remains in place for the Dehcho region on all public and private lands through May 24, 2024 and may be extended if necessary.

Recognizing continuing drought conditions, we will continue to urge caution for anyone using fire, and continue to assess the fire environment to determine whether any additional steps should be taken to prevent human-caused wildfires. 

Fort Liard residents should continue to follow instructions from your Community Government. For more information: visit: www.fortliard.com, email flemo@fortliard.com, or call the Hamlet Office at 867-770-4104.

[May 17, 2024, 5:30 pm] - GNWT Announces New Emergency Evacuation Relief Program

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is introducing a new financial assistance program for Northwest Territories (NWT) residents evacuating their homes and communities because of the increased flooding and wildfires in the NWT.

[May 17, 2024, 9:00 am] - Ache Dene Koe First Nation Notice to Members

Acho Dene Koe First Nation have issued the following notice to their members, urging any non-residents or non-essential staff to stay away from Fort Liard while the community is under Evacuation Notice:

[May 11, 2024, 10:30 pm] - 9-1-1 Service restored

In case of emergency you can call 9-1-1 as the service has been restored.

[May 11, 2024, 2:45 pm] - Fire Ban South Slave Region

Regional Fire Restrictions Implemented in South Slave Region on all Public and Private Lands Effective Immediately

[May 11, 2024, 1:45 pm] - PUBLIC NOTICE Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority

Process for Accessing Health and Social Services During Telecommunications Outages 

[May 11, 2024, 9:40 am] - 9-1-1 Service Alert Update

There continues to be wide-spread communications disruptions throughout the NWT affecting access to 9-1-1 and other emergency phone lines. NWT 9-1-1 can currently be reached at the alternative number of 867-765-8337.

The public will be notified when full service is restored.

[May 10, 2024, 10:15 pm] - 9-1-1 Service Alert

The GNWT is alerting the public that there is an incident that has caused a disruption to 9-1-1 Service and other emergency phone lines. People attempting to call emergency services are currently not able to get through calling 9-1-1.

If you can't reach local emergency services, please go directly to the RCMP detachment or Health Center. 

The public will be notified when 911 service is restored.

[May 10, 2024, 8:00 pm] - Fire Ban Dehcho Region

Regional fire restrictions implemented in Dehcho region on all public and private lands effective immediately. 

[May 10, 2024: 1:35 pm] - Evacuation Notice - Fort Liard

This Evacuation Notice is issued on behalf of Fort Liard.

The community of Fort Liard has placed residents on Evacuation Notice. This means there is an increased risk to the community due to wildfire.

The community advises residents to Be Prepared. 

  • Keep vehicles fueled.
  • Prepare an emergency kit with everything you need.
  • Follow the instructions of your community government.
  • For more information: visit: www.fortliard.com, email flemo@fortliard.com, or call the Hamlet Office at 867-770-4104.

Evacuation Notices, Alerts and Orders for a community are issued by the Community Government. Please refer to your local community government for specific details for your community.

  • Level 1 - Evacuation Notice: To advise you that an emergency event, such as a wildfire or flood, may present an increased risk to your community and could endanger life or property. 
  • Level 2 - Evacuation Alert: Get ready to leave on short notice. 
  • Level 3 - Evacuation Order:  Leave as soon as possible. Follow all directions from officials. 

[May 10, 2024: 11:15 am] - Highway 7 Closure

CLOSED: Highway 7 at the NWT-BC border is closed due to active wildfires on the BC Highway 77.

Residents and those travelling in the area should be aware that conditions can change quickly with little to no warning. Expect Smoky conditions to create poor visibility in this area.

Always check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the latest updates: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways Please do not call NWT Fire for highway updates.

You can see the BC Highway Conditions map here: https://www.drivebc.ca/mobile/map/map.html?l=roadcond&l=incident&l=currentplanevent

High winds are expected to continue through this region. Under these conditions, there is a high chance of treefall - which is a serious danger to those on the land. It is a good idea to delay travel and stay out of the bush in the areas surrounding Highway 7 affected by wind. High winds are expected today and tomorrow, through most of the South Slave and Dehcho.

[February 28, 2024: 4:51PM] - 911 Service Disruption Alert

The GNWT and RCMP are alerting the public that there will be a disruption to 9-1-1 Service for 15 minutes between 0100 and 0500 on Thursday February 29, 2024. People attempting to call emergency services may not be able to get through calling 9-1-1 for that 15 min period.

During this time, if you are not able to get through to 9-1-1 and require urgent assistance, you should dial the telephone prefix for their community, followed by 1-1-1-1. For example, Inuvik RCMP would be (867)777-1111 etc. If you can't reach local emergency services, please go directly to the RCMP detachment or Health Center.

[October 27, 2023: 10:21am] - 911 Service Disruption Alert

There is an incident that has caused a disruption to 911 Service. People are asked to use an alternative means of contacting local emergency services.

If you can't reach local emergency services or 911, please go directly to the RCMP detachment or Health Centre. You can also reach the RCMP and Health Centre on their direct lines.

Areas

Northwest Territories

https://nwtalert.ca/#/details/2023/346269

[September 19, 2023: 1:00pm] - Territorial State of Emergency

Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) Minister Shane Thompson has once again renewed the Territorial State of Emergency that was originally declared on August 15, 2023. The extended Territorial State of Emergency will be for the South Slave Region and will be in effect from September 19 until October 02, 2023. 

[September 18, 2023: 5:00 PM] - Evacuee reception centres

With the re-entry of Fort Smith, Hay River, and K’atl’odeeche First Nation, evacuees should now be checked out of their accommodations in Alberta. Anyone wishing to stay will need to make their own alternate arrangements for accommodations going forward.

The GNWT is working with residents of Enterprise who require continued accommodations support.

[September 18, 2023: 11:20 AM]  - HIGHWAY 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 and 9 are OPEN.
Residents returning home, please drive with extreme caution and obey all road signs and follow the direction of emergency management officials.

Expect heavy smoke and poor visibility on highway 3 between Fort Providence and Yellowknife, on highway 9 and the Whatì access road. Travel is NOT recommended on these roads, please consider postponing non-essential travel. 

Highway 1 from km 187 to km 375 (between Highway 3 Junction and Jean Marie River access road) is expected to have frequent closures due to wildfire activity.
Highway staff are monitoring the situation closely.

Residents should be aware that highway conditions can change quickly, and the highway may close again with little to no warning.

Please check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the latest updates: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways 

[September 17, 2023: 2:40 PM] - Advisory for Evacuees of Hay River, KFN Reserve and Fort Smith

The last night that the GNWT will be providing accommodations for evacuees from Hay River, KFN Reserve and Fort Smith is Monday, September 18, 2023. Evacuees must be checked out of their accommodations by checkout time on Tuesday, September 19 or make their own alternate arrangements for accommodations beyond that date. 

If you pre-registered for a flight and were not contacted please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca

If you are concerned about the reduced availability of health services in community, please contact 874-8000 to discuss your healthcare options in Hay River during this time or visit https://www.hrhssa.org for the latest updates on services. Residents in Fort Smith can find more information here: www.nthssa.ca/en/newsroom/public-notice-service-level-update-%E2%80%93-fort-smith-september-15-2023

Hay River and K’atl’odeeche First Nation Reserve –Re-entry flights to Hay River are currently underway and will be completed by this evening, Sunday, September 17. 

If you are unable to return home due to reduced availability of necessary health services in your community, please visit https://www.hrhssa.org/wildfire-updates.html for the latest updates on services and contact information to make arrangements until you can return home.

Fort Smith – Re-entry flights are scheduled for Monday, September, 18. 

If you are unable to return home due to reduced availability of necessary health services in your community, please visit www.nthssa.ca/en/newsroom/public-notice-service-level-update-%E2%80%93-fort-smith-september-15-2023 for the latest updates on services and contact information to make arrangements until you can return home.

Enterprise – an evacuation order remains in place and GNWT is contacting residents directly to confirm your accommodations situation. If you are not contacted by 5 pm Sunday, September 17, please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca and someone will contact you directly.

Hay River Corridor - the GNWT is contacting residents who have lost their homes in Paradise Gardens, Patterson Road or other locations in Hay River directly to confirm your accommodations situation.  If you are not contacted by 5 pm Sunday, September 17, please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca and someone will contact you directly.

[September 16, 2023: 3:40 PM] - K’atl’odeeche First Nation re-entry

K’atl’odeeche First Nation has confirmed residents can return beginning Sunday September 17th. See the re-entry plan on the K’atl’odeeche First Nation Facebook page.

[September 16, 2023: 2:20 PM] - Fort Smith re-entry

The Town of Fort Smith has confirmed residents can return beginning Monday September 18th. See the re-entry plan on the Town of Fort Smith website.

[September 15, 2023: 6:30 PM] - Hay River re-entry

The Town of Hay River has confirmed residents can return beginning Saturday September 16th. See the re-entry plan on the Town of Hay River website.

[September 14, 2023: 5:00 PM] - Flight pre-registration extended

Flight pre-registration for evacuees from Hay River, Kʼatlodeeche First Nation and Fort Smith has been extended to 5PM on Friday, September 15.

Operators are standing by to help you quickly pre-register for re-entry flights. Call 1-888-383-6649 today until 10PM or tomorrow between 8AM and 5PM.

For details on how to pre-register, or to pre-register online, go to:

https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/re-entry-flights-hay-river-katlodeeche-first-nation-and-fort-smith

 

Questions on pre-registration? Email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca for assistance from GNWT staff.

[September 14, 2023: 8:00am] Update on highway supports and road safety

As of 8:00am Thursday, Sept. 14 the following additional support services will be in effect:

  • Tow trucks and GNWT highways trucks will be patrolling Highway 1, between the border and highway 2 intersection as well as highways, 2 and 5 from 8:00am to 10:00pm daily.
  • These trucks will carry fuel for emergency situations only.
  • Temporary portable washrooms installed at the Alberta/NT border will be available.

[September 13, 2023: 5:00pm] - Highway conditions

HIGHWAY 2, 5 and 6 are CLOSED to the general public. Only essential workers on the list and local Ft. Resolution residents will be granted access past the checkpoint based on highway conditions.

HIGHWAY 1, 3 and 7 are OPEN.
Residents should be aware that highway conditions can change quickly, and the highway may close again with little to no warning.

Please check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the latest updates: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways

[September 13, 2023: 5:00pm] - Public Health Notice for Hay River area, Fort Smith and Kʼatlodeeche First Nation

[update: This post has been updated to include Kʼatlodeeche First Nation.]

The Chief Environmental Health Officer is advising all residents returning from evacuation with water holding tanks for drinking water in the Hay River and surrounding area, Kʼatlodeeche First Nation, and Fort Smith area to take the following measures to ensure safe drinking water:

  • Drain the water in the holding tank and request a refill of fresh treated water.
  • Flush all water lines with fresh water for 15 minutes.

Read the full public health notice here. 

[September 13, 2023: 3:00pm] - Health and Social Service Update – Service levels

The Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority is providing notice to residents about service levels in Yellowknife and preparations that are ongoing for further service ramp up post-evacuation as part of our recovery and resumption of services. See the latest service levels on the NTHSSA website. 

[September 13, 2023: 9:30am] - Essential workers began returning to Hay River today

Essential workers began returning to Hay River today. Please follow the steps and instructions from the Town of Hay River.

For the latest, most accurate updates, and to see the Town's re-entry plan, visit : https://hayriver.com/2023-reentry/ 

[September 12, 2023: 11:00am] - Essential workers began returning to Fort Smith today

Essential workers began returning to Fort Smith today. Please follow the steps and instructions from the Town of Fort Smith.

For the latest, most accurate updates, and to see the Town's steps to re-entry, visit https://fortsmith.ca/evacuation-updates

[September 12, 2023: 8:00am] - Re-entry flights – Hay River, Kʼatlodeeche First Nation and Fort Smith

Pre-registration for re-entry flights is now available for evacuees from Hay River, Kʼatlodeeche First Nation and Fort Smith.

While evacuation orders for Hay River, Kʼatlodeeche First Nation and Fort Smith are still in place, pre-registration is open now to assist with developing passenger lists for re-entry flights when they’re needed. 

From there, appropriate aircraft will be booked based on community re-entry timelines and need in established flight hubs.

A separate pre-registration process for Enterprise evacuees will be organized at a later date when re-entry details for that community become available.

Once your flight information is available, the GNWT will call you to confirm. You will also be provided with information on ground transportation from a designated pick-up location to your assigned airport.

For details on how to pre-register, go to: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/re-entry-flights-hay-river-katlodeeche-first-nation-and-fort-smith 

[September 11, 2023: 8:35pm] - Territorial State of Emergency

Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA) Minister Shane Thompson has once again renewed the Territorial State of Emergency that was originally declared on August 15, 2023 and renewed for a first time on August 29, 2023 due to the wildfire situation across multiple Northwest Territories (NWT) regions. The extended Territorial State of Emergency will be in effect until September 18, 2023.

[September 11, 2023: 1:15pm] - Re-entry flight information

If you are an evacuee from Yellowknife, Ndilǫ, Dettah and the Ingraham Trail and you are waiting for a re-entry flight from Alberta but have not received a confirmation, please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca by Monday September 11th at 8:00PM. We have flights for remaining evacuees who were not in Edmonton or Calgary. 

[September 10, 2023: 11:55am] - Advisory for Evacuees of Yellowknife, Ndilǫ, Dettah and the Ingraham Trail still in Alberta

TODAY (Sunday, September 10) is the last day for re-entry flights to Yellowknife from Edmonton and Calgary.

If you’re in Edmonton or Leduc:

  • If you have not received a call with your flight information, please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca.
  • If you do not have access to email, call 1-888-383-4830 and the call centre will contact the GNWT for you.

If you’re in Calgary:

  • Go to the Radisson Hotel (6620 – 36th Street Northeast, Calgary) as soon as possible and no later than 3:00PM today to check in for a flight.
  • You do not need to be pre-registered.
  • Bring all of your belongings.
  • Bring your pets in a crate.
  • If you were staying at a hotel, check out at the hotel front desk and get a free taxi chit to pay for your trip to the Radisson Hotel.

If you are outside of Edmonton, Leduc or Calgary:

If you have pre-registered for a re-entry flight and are located in any of the evacuee host communities listed below, please wait for your flight confirmation. If you have not received information about a flight today, then you are not flying today and you have not missed your flight. Do not proceed to Edmonton or Calgary.

  • Fort McMurray
  • Fox Creek
  • Grande Prairie
  • Lac La Biche
  • Lloydminster
  • Red Deer
  • Valleyview
  • Whitecourt

Details on flight location and transportation from the host communities listed above will be provided in your flight confirmation.

[September 10, 2023: 11:00am] - Temporary Support Services on NWT Highways to end Monday morning

Now that most Yellowknife residents have returned home and traffic flow is expected to return to normal by the end of the weekend, the GNWT will be ending temporary support services that were put in place to provide for a safe re-entry to Yellowknife via NWT highways.

As of 8:00 am Monday September 11, 2023, the following changes will be in effect:

  • Tow trucks will no longer be patrolling the highway and there will be no emergency fuel available.  
  • Temporary portable washrooms installed at Rae Access Road, North Arm Park, Fort Providence and the Deh Cho Bridge will no longer be available.

Plan your trip accordingly and obey all traffic signs and controls. For up-to-date information on re-entry to Yellowknife by road, visit: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/returning-yellowknife-road

[September 9, 2023: 6:15 p.m.] - Update for Evacuees in Edmonton, Leduc and Calgary

Evacuees of Yellowknife, Ndilǫ, Dettah and the Ingraham Trail who are in Edmonton, Leduc and Calgary will need to check out of their hotel accommodations by Sunday, September 10. Hotel bookings in Edmonton, Leduc and Calgary that had previously been extended into next week are being shortened to end on Sunday.

Sunday will be the last day for re-entry flights to Yellowknife from Edmonton and Calgary.

For those individuals that will be required to stay outside their home community due to availability of necessary health services beyond the time when evacuee supports end, please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca if you have not already been contacted by a pathfinder.

If you’re in Edmonton or Leduc:

  • The GNWT is calling evacuees who listed Edmonton or Leduc on their pre-registration to book them on flights on Sunday, September 10.
  • If you haven't heard from the GNWT by 8pm Saturday, September 9, please email disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca.

If you’re in Calgary:

  • Go to the Radisson Hotel (6620 – 36th Street Northeast, Calgary) between 9:00AM and 4:00PM on Sunday, September 10 to check in for a flight.
  • You do not need to be pre-registered.
  • Bring all of your belongings.
  • Bring your pets in a crate.
  • If you were staying at a hotel, check out at the hotel front desk and get a free taxi chit to pay for your trip to the Radisson Hotel.
  • Flights are departing throughout the day on Sunday.
  • If there is not enough space for everyone on Sunday’s flights, another hotel room will be provided.

[September 9, 2023: 12:09 p.m.] - Residents of Kakisa can return to their community beginning today.

The evacuation order for Kakisa has been downgraded to an evacuation alert.

Check highway conditions prior to travelling: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways

Bring basic supplies to last 72 hours. Ensure you have enough fuel, food, water and other supplies to be prepared.

Watch out for firefighters working in the area and watch out for wildlife.

Drive carefully and follow directions and signs. Do not speed.

For more information on returning by road: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/returning-yellowknife-road

While Kakisa is no longer under an Evacuation Order, the Order has been downgraded to an Evacuation Alert. This means residents should continue to be prepared to leave.

For the latest, most accurate emergency information, visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety and listen to your Community Government.

[September 9, 2023: 10:37 a.m.] - Highway 1 Update

HIGHWAY 1 has re-opened. Be prepared for delays or sudden road closures.

Please obey all road signs and follow the direction of emergency management officials.

For highway updates, visit: www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways

[September 8, 2023: 8:00 PM] - Flight pre-registration

Flight pre-registration for evacuees from Yellowknife, Dettah, Ndilǫ and the Ingraham Trail is now closed.

[September 8, 2023: 6:30 PM] - Flight info for evacuees outside of Calgary and Edmonton

Re-entry flights across Alberta are still being scheduled for evacuees from Dettah, Ndilǫ, Yellowknife and the Ingraham Trail. A flight from Fort McMurray is scheduled on Saturday, September 9, and flights from Red Deer and Grande Prairie are tentatively scheduled for Monday, September 11.

If you have pre-registered for a re-entry flight and are located in any of the evacuee host communities listed below, please watch for your flight confirmation over the weekend. Do not proceed to Edmonton or Calgary.

  • Fort McMurray
  • Fox Creek
  • Grande Prairie
  • Lac La Biche
  • Lloydminster
  • Red Deer
  • Valleyview
  • Whitecourt

Details on flight location and transportation from the host communities listed above will be provided in your flight confirmation.

If you no longer require a flight, please cancel your pre-registration by emailing nwt-tno@oneclogistics.com.

[September 8, 2023: 5:30 PM] - Yellowknife Highway 3  and Highways 7 Update

  • On Saturday morning, Highway 3 from approx. kilometer 336-338 there will be a one lane closure to remove the water pumps and sprinkler hoses along the south side of the Highway by Jackfish Lake. The one lane closure will be from 08:00am until 12 noon. The public is advised to use caution in this area, reduce speed and follow the direction of personnel onsite.
  • Highway 7 is open to Ft. Liard. Smoke advisory and may close with little to no notice.

For the most up to date information on highways closures, please visit: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways

[September 8, 2023: 12:00 PM] - Re-entry flights from Calgary

Evacuees in Calgary waiting for a flight to Yellowknife, go to the Radisson Hotel at 6620 – 36th Street Northeast to check in for a flight. Go there as soon as possible, whether you pre-registered or not. We have flights going out Friday and Saturday available for you.

  • Bring all your belongings.
  • Bring your pets in a crate.
  • If you were staying at a hotel, check out at the hotel front desk.
  • If you were staying at a hotel, get a free taxi voucher at the hotel front desk.
  • If there is not enough space for everyone on today’s flights, we’ll get you another hotel room.

If you are an evacuee from Yellowknife, Dettah, Ndilǫ, and the Ingraham Trail in any other Alberta community and you need a flight to Yellowknife, stay where you are. Pre-register for a re-entry flight by filling out the online form, registering by email, or calling to register. Pre-registration details are here: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/returning-yellowknife-air

[September 7, 2023: 3:10 PM] - Child Care Fee Reduction Subsidies

If you have a child between the ages of 6-11 years old who attends a licensed early learning and child care program in a community affected by an evacuation order in September, new funding is being provided to cover September fees.

The Department of Education, Culture and Employment is distributing additional funding to ensure this age group receives support. Funding will be provided from the Department to licensed programs (including centre-based programs, and family day homes). Families do not need to apply for it. If you have already paid your September fees, you may be refunded or you may see this funding applied to the month of October. Please be patient with programs as they work to make these arrangements.

The Department previously announced offering 100% of Child Care Fee Reduction Subsidies for licensed programs for the month of September to support families and licensed programs with financial challenges. The Child Care Fee Reduction Subsidy is available for children age five and under. 

[September 7, 2023: 11:10 AM] - Flight pre-registration closes September 8

Flight pre-registration will close on Friday September 8th at 8:00PM. If you have not pre-registered for a flight by then, you will be responsible for booking and paying for your own return to Yellowknife.

If you are an evacuee from Dettah, the Ingraham Trail, Ndilǫ or Yellowknife, and require a re-entry flight back to Yellowknife, pre-register now at https://www.gov.nt.ca/.../publi.../returning-yellowknife-air

  • Flight confirmations will be sent to you directly as flights are booked. You will get a text message, email or phone call. These notifications will contain check-in information. Follow the instructions in the message and proceed to the check-in location at the specified time. You will be transported from the check-in location to the airport.
  •  You will NOT be asked to reply to the message. You will not be asked for personal information, payment, or any other details. If you have questions about your flight confirmation, call 1-888-383-4830. If you've made other arrangements, please cancel your pre-registration by calling 1-888-383-4830. This will free up a seat for someone else who needs it.
  •  If you miss your assigned flight, there is no guarantee you will be re-booked on a second flight. You will be responsible for booking and paying for your own return to Yellowknife.

[September 6, 2023: 3:30 PM] - Yellowknife School Start Dates

Yellowknife Education District No. 1 (YK1), Yellowknife Catholic Schools (YCS) and Commission scolaire francophone Territoires du Nord-Ouest (CSFTNO) – have indicated that schools will begin city-wide on September 14, 2023.

Provided there are no delays to the City’s re-entry plans, staff will report to work on September 11. Yellowknife high schools will open for registration and distribution of timetables on September 12 and 13.

Each community’s situation is unique, and Hay River and Fort Smith are still under evacuation orders. Once it’s determined that it’s safe to return to South Slave communities, and when evacuation orders will be lifted, the South Slave Divisional Education Council (SSDEC) will provide students and families with plenty of notice before the start of school.

[September 6, 2023: 2:58 PM] - Evacuees in Calgary – Pre-register TODAY

Hotels in Calgary will be extremely limited after September 8th – In order to make sure you are able to get on a flight before your hotel accommodations end, Yellowknife evacuees in Calgary should pre-register TODAY by 8:00PM. If you do not pre-register today, we cannot guarantee you will be booked on a flight before your hotel accommodations end. Pre-register now at https://www.gov.nt.ca/.../publi.../returning-yellowknife-air

  • Flight pre-registration for other Alberta locations will close on Friday September 8th at 8:00PM.
  • Flight confirmations will be sent to you directly as flights are booked. You will get a text message, email or phone call. These notifications will contain check-in information. Follow the instructions in the message and proceed to the check-in location at the specified time. You will be transported from the check-in location to the airport.
  • You will NOT be asked to reply to the message. You will not be asked for personal information, payment, or any other details. There are no links to click. If you have questions about your flight confirmation, call 1-888-383-4830.
  • If you miss your assigned flight, there is no guarantee you will be re-booked on a second flight. You will be responsible for booking and paying for your own return to Yellowknife.

[September 6, 2023: 2:50 PM] - Update on NWT Parks Facilities

Resident returning to Yellowknife by road should be advised that some NWT Parks facilities will not be open or operating along the highway due to closure and/or fire damage.

The following NWT Parks are closed and not operating:

  • Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park
  • McNallie Creek
  • Lady Evelyn Falls Territorial Park

The following NWT Parks facilities will be open and operating (be advised some services may be limited):

  • 60th Parallel Territorial Park 
  • Slave River Lowlands Overview
  • Kakisa River Territorial Park Day use area
  • Dory Point Territorial Park Day Use area
  • Fort Providence Territorial Park
  • Chan Lake Territorial Park
  • North Arm Territorial Park

Pump-out stations along the route to Yellowknife include: 

  • 60th Parallel 
  • Fort Providence 

[September 6, 2023: 2:15 PM] - Advice on recreational travel to the NWT

The GNWT is advising that recreational visitors be aware of the current risks of traveling to the NWT at this time. The NWT is still under a state of emergency, and wildfire risks remain a concern across much of the territory, including around highways and evacuated communities.

Enterprise, Fort Smith, Hay River, K’atl’odeeche First Nation, and surrounding areas remain under an Evacuation Order. The City of Yellowknife remains under Evacuation Alert. Communities under evacuation alerts are still at risk from wildfires in the area.

[September 6, 2023: 10:45 AM] - Residents of Dettah, the Ingraham Trail, Ndilǫ and the City of Yellowknife can return to their communities beginning today.

Residents of Dettah, the Ingraham Trail, Ndilǫ and the City of Yellowknife can return to their communities beginning today.

Residents returning by air

Residents returning by road

  • Check highway conditions prior to travelling: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways
  • Know when and where to buy fuel, where rest stops are located, and have a plan for dealing with long delays
  • Bring basic supplies to last 72 hours. Ensure you have enough fuel, food, water and other supplies for the drive ahead.
  • Watch out for firefighters working in the area and watch out for wildlife
  • Drive carefully and follow directions and signs
  • For more information on returning by road: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/returning-yellowknife-road

While these communities are no longer under an Evacuation Order, the Order has been downgraded to an Evacuation Alert. This means residents should continue to be prepared to leave.

For the latest, most accurate emergency information, visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety and listen to your Community Government.

[September 5, 2023: 9:50 PM] - Re-entry flight confirmations

[Edit] This post previously said there are no links. New confirmation messages for Calgary-based flights include a link to the City of Calgary website.

The first re-entry flight confirmations have been sent to some residents departing Calgary to Yellowknife. Notifications were sent by text message and contain check-in information. Follow the instructions in the text message and proceed to the check-in location at the specified time. You will be transported to the airport. 

You will NOT be asked to reply to the message. You will not be asked for personal information, payment, or any other details. Do not respond to the text message. If you have questions about your flight confirmation, call 1-888-383-4830. 

[September 5, 2023: 11:40 AM] - Banking, Loans and Mortgages

Many banks and financial institutions offer supports and options for clients who have been impacted by natural disasters. Contact your bank or financial institution to inquire about supports they can offer, such as:

  • Special payment arrangements and deferrals on mortgages, loans, and lines of credit
  • Debt consolidation or re-amortization
  • Repayment options for credit cards

[September 4, 2023: 4:45 PM] - Pre-Registration for Evacuees in Whitehorse and Winnipeg

Please note that due to the small number of evacuees located in Whitehorse and Winnipeg, one re-entry flight is being planned per location. These flights are tentatively scheduled to depart on Thursday, September 7. If you are an evacuee in one of these locations and have not pre-registered, please do so as soon as possible.

[September 4, 2023: 1:30 PM] - Updated information on returning to Yellowknife

New details have been added to the Returning to Yellowknife by Road webpage. Updates include:

  • Added expected public re-entry dates – Wednesday September 6th at noon.
  • Clarification about gas stations and fuel supply
  • Information about road safety and anticipated RCMP support

New details have been added to the Returning to Yellowknife by Air webpage. Updates include:

  • Travel with expired ID and without ID will be permitted
  • Information and resources for people flying with pets
  • The City of Yellowknife will facilitate transportation for evacuees from the airport to their homes in Yellowknife. 
  • Yellowknives Dene First Nation will also have buses at the airport to transport members to Ndilǫ and Dettah.
  • The NWTSPCA can help with transporting pets once you arrive in Yellowknife

[September 4, 2023: 12:22 PM] - Calgary Evacuee Accommodations

Understanding that hotel capacities are constantly changing, shifting accommodations for evacuees may be required in some circumstances. As a result of current hotel capacity constraints in Calgary, some evacuees have been required to relocate. The City of Calgary is doing their best to relocate affected individuals to different hotels, but where that is not possible, evacuees will continue to be supported through group lodging.  The City of Calgary will arrange transportation to the new accommodation locations and will continue supporting evacuees through the transition.

The Government of the Northwest Territories is working directly with representatives from the City of Calgary and other social support agencies to identify different evacuee needs and arrange their accommodations accordingly. Evacuees that have additional needs will be prioritized for hotel reassignment. The City of Calgary and its partners are working to ensure all wrap-around emergency social services will continue to be provided to those accessing group lodging.

There are teams onsite at each affected hotel today, September 4th, between 12:00pm and 3:00pm to let people know where they will be moving and to answer any questions they may have. Government of the Northwest Territories’ staff will also be available to answer questions and help people with the pre-registration process for flights home. The GNWT has prioritized repatriation flights from Calgary on September 6, to support evacuees currently in Calgary to come home.

Additional information on supports available through the City of Calgary can be found at www.Calgary.ca/wildfires or by calling 3-1-1.

Residents can pre-register for flights by visiting the GNWT’s Public Safety page: www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/returning-air-yellowknife

    [September 2, 2023: 5:38 PM] - Returning essential workers can be accompanied by their immediate family members

    The GNWT has updated the Yellowknife Evacuation order to clarify that returning essential workers can be accompanied by their immediate family members. For added clarity, the City of Yellowknife has indicated it intends to downgrade the Evacuation Order to an Evacuation Alert on Wednesday September 6th at noon. This update applies to essential workers returning before the Order is downgraded. 

    [September 2, 2023: 2:38 PM] - Information for people traveling North in Alberta

    All Northwest Territories evacuees returning home via road will be responsible for their own accommodations, food, and other expenses.  Alberta reception centres will not be accepting new or transferred registrations of evacuees. Evacuees who start travelling north before the evacuation order is lifted may be held at highway checkpoints until the evacuation order is lifted and will be responsible for their own accommodations, food, and other expenses.

    [September 2, 2023: 1:30 PM] - Flight Pre-Registration Now Available for Dettah, Ndilǫ, Yellowknife and Ingraham Trail Evacuee Re-entry

    To help evacuees of Dettah, Ndilǫ, Yellowknife and the Ingraham Trail prepare to return home, pre-registration for Yellowknife re-entry flights is now available both online and over the phone.

    • Pre-registration is the first step in developing passenger lists for re-entry flights.
    • From there, appropriate aircraft will be booked based on need in established flight hubs.
    • Pending evacuation orders being downgraded to an Alert, flights will depart as early as Wednesday, September 6 and continue for an estimated five days.

    Flight hubs across Alberta are currently being identified and will be finalized based on need. Evacuees can also pre-register for flights from Whitehorse, Yukon and Winnipeg, Manitoba.

    Once an evacuee’s flight information is available, it will be sent to them at least 24 hours before departure via email or text. They will also receive information on ground transportation from evacuation/reception centres to the assigned airport. When email or text are unavailable, information will be provided to evacuees over the phone.

    Evacuees from evacuated South Slave communities are asked to remain where they are rather than travel to Yellowknife. Given the limited services that will be available in the city as residents return, no supports will be available in the form of evacuation centres or accommodations for evacuees from other communities in Yellowknife.

    [September 1, 2023: 6:32 PM] - The City of Yellowknife and YKDFN Announce Return Date

    The City of Yellowknife and the Yellowknives Dene First Nation have announced a tentative date and time of 12:00 PM Wednesday, September 6, 2023 for residents to begin returning to Dettah, N’Dilo and Yellowknife.

    Please stay where you are until the evacuation order is lifted on Wednesday. This will help make re-entry safer and more organized.

    Please do not travel back toward the NWT-Alberta border until Wednesday, September 6. No supports are available in Northern Alberta for residents considering moving North to wait for the order to be lifted.

    The GNWT will be holding a Press Conference on Saturday, September 2, 2023 at 4:00 PM to provide residents with information about:

    • how to plan to travel home safely after the evacuation order has been lifted;
    • the level of GNWT services, including health services, that will be available as of the re-entry date;
    • risks and other considerations that residents will want to evaluate when deciding when to return home;
    • the process to register for flights home for those that require them; and
    • the supports that will remain available in Alberta to NWT residents who can return home yet because of health concerns; and
    • the limited services available in Yellowknife.

    While this is good news for residents of Dettah, N’Dilo and Yellowknife, we want to recognize that residents of the communities Hay River, Fort Smith, Kakisa, Enterprise and Kátł’odeeche First Nation remain displaced. We continue actively fighting the fires outside of your communities to get you home as soon as it is safe.

    [September 1, 2023: 4:10 PM] - Update to Eligibility Criteria for Evacuee Income Disruption Support Program

    The Evacuee Income Disruption Support (EIDS) program assists NWT residents who have lost employment income during extended evacuation periods. It provides financial support to adults 17+ whose employment has been disrupted by an evacuation lasting more than seven days. Eligible residents will receive a one-time payment of $750.

    Previously, residents were only eligible for the EIDS program if they did not receive any financial support from their employer. The eligibility criteria have been updated so that funding is available to all residents 17 and older who lost income due to evacuation, regardless of whether they received financial support from their employer.

    Apply Online or download the Evacuee Income Disruption Support program application. Completed applications can be sent to EIDS@gov.nt.ca.

    [September 1, 2023: 2:45 PM ] - NTHSSA Advising Residents to Expect Limited Services in Advance of and After Public Re-Entry

    NWT residents are being advised to expect limited services at the time of Yellowknife re-entry as the health and social services system ramps-up services. See the full details here. 

    [September 1, 2023: 12:20 PM ] - Highway Closure Warning

    Highway 1 will close Friday, September 1, 7:00pm

    • Department of Infrastructure, working with the Department of Environment and Climate Change and the Emergency Management Organization, will be closing Highway 1 from the Alberta border to Kakisa access road km 187, at 7:00pm Friday, September 1.
    • GNWT staff will continue to monitor the situation closely on our highways and will provide updates on when the Highway can safely reopen.
    • High winds are anticipated to accelerate fires toward and along Highway 1 this weekend.
    • Highway 1 is currently open to essential travel but will close at 7:00pm today.
    • Residents should be aware that conditions can change quickly with little to no warning.
    • Travel is highly discouraged during this time.
    • Please check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the latest updates: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways 

    September 1, 2023: 11:15 AM ] - Court Update

    All Territorial Court proceedings in all communities scheduled from August 16, 2023 and up to and including September 29, 2023 have been cancelled. 

    All Supreme Court proceedings in all communities scheduled from August 16, 2023 and up to and including September 22, 2023 have been cancelled. 

    Please consult the NWT Courts website for more information.

    [September 1, 2023: 11:15 AM ] - School Update

    If you are an evacuee considering temporarily enrolling your child in a school in another jurisdiction, we’ve added some Q&A to our school information page. 

    [August 31, 2023: 5:30 PM] - Disaster Financial Assistance

    NWT Individuals, small businesses, non-profit organizations, and community governments impacted by widespread damage due to the 2023 Wildfire Disaster may be eligible for Disaster Financial Assistance.

    The GNWT recognizes the immense stress that residents, businesses, and community officials are under due to the Territorial State of Emergency that was declared on August 15, 2023, and particularly those impacted by this year’s unprecedented wildfire situation.

    Disaster assistance will not cover all costs associated with a disaster in the NWT, but will provide compensation for essential needs where private insurance does not. A maximum of $240,000 is available per claim.

    Find out if you're eligible and learn how to apply: https://www.maca.gov.nt.ca/en/services/disaster-recovery/disaster-financial-assistance

    [August 31, 2023: 2:30 PM] - Update about pharmacies in Yellowknife

    Pharmacies in Yellowknife have updated their operating hours as follows:

    • Medicine Shoppe

      • Open from Monday to Friday, 10 AM to 5 PM.

      • Closed on Monday, September 4th, for Labour Day.

      • An emergency phone number will be posted on the door and the answering machine for after-hours assistance.

      • You can also find this emergency contact information on our Facebook page.

    • Shoppers Drug Mart

      • Open from Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM.

      • For assistance, please call 867-873-4055 and press 3, followed by another 3.

    [August 31, 2023: 12:45 PM] - Update to Evacuation Travel Support Program form and FAQ

    The GNWT has updated the online application form for the Evacuation Travel Support Program and is developing an additional resource to respond to some of the most frequently asked questions from residents.

    For more information, please visit: https://www.fin.gov.nt.ca/en/services/evacuation-travel-support-program.

    The FAQ will be added to this page as soon as it is available.

    [August 31, 2023: 10:00 AM] - Update to Licensed Early Learning and Child Care programs 

    The GNWT will be offering fee based licensed early learning and child care providers from evacuated communities with 100% of the Child Care Fee Reduction (CCFR) subsidy for the month of September 2023.

    Visit this page for more information: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/financial-support-and-donating

    [August 31, 2023: 9:45 AM] - Free Mail Forwarding for customers affected by wildfires in the Northwest Territories effective August 30

    https://www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/our-company/news-and-media/corporate-news/closures-and-service-interruptions/2023-08-30-free-mail-forwarding-for-customers-affected-by-wildfires-in-the-northwest-territories-effective-august-30

    [August 30, 2023: 5:20 PM] Emergency Management Organization Pauses Repatriation of Most Essential Personnel to Yellowknife

    High winds are anticipated to accelerate fires along Highway 1 from Friday, September 1 to Sunday, September 3. Highway 1 is currently open to essential travel but subject to closure without warning as visibility is poor.  Due to the severe weather event, it is anticipated that Highway 1 will close to all traffic from Friday, September 1, to Sunday, September 3.

    Based on these conditions, the Emergency Management Organization has directed that repatriation of essential workers, except healthcare-related staff identified through the Department of Health and Social Services and Health and Social Services Authorities, will be paused effective immediately.

    Despite the closure of the highway, the repatriation of essential health staff (by air) will continue during this time. This is important to allow time for safe resumption of services. This pause in phase 3 of the re-entry process is driven by the need to prioritize the safety of responders and essential staff working hard to prepare Yellowknife to welcome evacuees home.

    The fire outside Yellowknife continues to be held. The fire risk to the community itself is decreased. This pause in the return of essential personnel is directly related to the wildfire risks associated with returning by road.

    [August 30, 2023: 9:38 AM] - Operational Support for Businesses Affected by Wildfire Evacuation

    Application information is now available online for Operational Support to Businesses Affected by Wildfire Evacuations. Funding is provided through the Support For Entrepreneurs And Economic Development (SEED) Policy.

    Eligible businesses may receive up to $5000 in addition to supports already provided through other SEED Programs.

    To apply, please visit: https://www.iti.gov.nt.ca/en/services/SEED_evacuation_relief

    [August 29, 2023: 5:43 PM] - Reminder: It is not yet time to return to evacuated communities

    Some of the wildfires near NWT communities have improved, and are now classified as “being held” instead of out “out of control.” This is great news, and we understand that evacuated communities want to know when they can go home.

    • Right now it’s still isn’t time for NWT residents to return to evacuated communities. When it is time, we will let residents know with as much notice as possible.
    • For now, please don’t start driving back to Dettah, Enterprise, Fort Smith, Hay River, K’atl’odeeche First Nation, Kakisa N'dilo, Yellowknife or the surrounding areas. There is a highway check stop at the NWT-Alberta border, and there are roadblocks on Highways 2, 3, and 5. Only essential workers who have been authorized ahead of time will be allowed to return.
    • Please do not start travelling back toward the NWT-Alberta border. There are limited supports available in Northern Alberta should you be unable to cross the border. If you start driving North, you are responsible for your own accommodations, food, and other expenses.
    • Being away from home is stressful and frustrating. However, staying where you are is currently the best thing you can do. We will let you know when you can start returning as soon as we can! 

    Thank you to all NWT residents for staying safe and listening to the guidance, even when it can be frustrating.

    Visit the Public Safety page for more information on the phases of re-entry: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/re-entry-after-evacuation

    [August 29, 2023: 3:30 PM] - Applications open for Evacuation Travel Support Program]

    Applications for the Evacuation Travel Support Program are now open and available online.

    The Evacuation Travel Support Program will provide financial relief to NWT residents who evacuated by vehicle due to the wildfires: $750 per vehicle evacuated to a southern jurisdiction or $400 per vehicle evacuated within the NWT.

    To apply, please visit: https://www.fin.gov.nt.ca/en/services/evacuation-travel-support-program

    [August 28, 2023: 3:50 PM] - Update on fire activity around Yellowknife

    Today, NWT Fire announced that Behchoko/Yellowknife Fire (ZF015 & ZF011) is 'being held'. This is good news. But as NWT Fire says, 'being held' does not mean the fire is under control. There are also other nearby fires that are still out of control. It remains unsafe to return to evacuated NWT communities.

    We know residents have a lot of questions about returning home. Community governments, with support from the GNWT, are finalizing re-entry plans. We anticipate sharing the outline of those plans on Monday August 28th. 

    [August 26, 2023: 6:00 PM] - Information on Essential Personnel

    [This post was modified August 27, 2023: 2:30PM for clarity]. Essential personnel are those who are directly working on the wildfire response and a team dedicated to supporting them, so they can focus on response and recovery efforts.

    This can include those who are:

    • in a public safety role like wildfire and municipal firefighters, policing;
    • operating critical infrastructure (telecommunications, municipal services like water treatment and wastewater, utilities, etc.);
    • providing food, lodging and basic needs that support the front line response;
    • relieving others from essential duties.

    All essential personnel are designated and approved by community governments, local authorities or Government of the Northwest Territories departments.  These designations are then supported by the Territorial Emergency Management Organization through an established process. 

    If you want to apply for an essential designation email: nwtemo_logistics@gov.nt.ca. Essential personnel will receive letters identifying them, so that travel within the territory is possible, including through highway checkpoints.

    [August 25, 2023: 7:00 PM] - Funding for Evacuees and Small Businesses

    Evacuation Travel Support Program 

    • The Evacuation Travel Support Program is available to NWT residents who, by order, evacuated their home community because of the 2023 wildfires. Eligible individuals who evacuated by vehicle will be provided with a one-time direct deposit as follows:
      1. $750 per vehicle evacuated to a southern jurisdiction; or
      2. $400 per vehicle evacuated within the NWT
    • Details on how to apply be provided in the coming days
    • Evacuees who left by road but need to return by air will be eligible to register for organized re-entry flights paid for by the GNWT. Details on how to register will come at a later date as re-entry planning progresses.

    Support for Entrepreneurs and Economic Development (SEED)

    • The Support for Entrepreneurs and Economic Development (SEED) Policy has been expanded to allow for contributions of up to $5,000 to offset operational costs incurred by wildfire-affected businesses.
    • Applications for costs incurred from May 2023 onward will be accepted and must be supported by receipts or equivalent proof.

    [August 25, 2023: 4:30 PM] Important information for customers affected by wildfires in the Northwest Territories

    Canada Post recognizes the difficulties facing many residents in communities across the Northwest Territories resulting from wildfires. Our team is actively working to put contingency measures in place, assessing the situation and options, to best serve residents of these communities and to keep them connected. The safety of our employees is our number one priority and Red and Yellow delivery service alerts have been issued.

    As of August 25, wildfires are impacting mail services to the following communities:

    • Hay River
    • Enterprise
    • K'atlodeeche First Nation
    • Fort Resolution
    • Fort Smith
    • Ulukhaktok (Holman)
    • Dettah
    • N'dilo
    • Gameti
    • Lutsel'ke
    • Wekweeti
    • Whati
    • Jean Marie River
    • Kakisa

    In the meantime, all Lettermail items and mail that cannot be delivered are being held in safe and secure Canada Post facilities until contingency plans are in place.

    We thank those affected for their patience in this difficult time. Please continue to check this website regularly for updates.

    If customers have questions regarding mail delivery, they can contact Canada Post’s Customer Service team online at canadapost.ca/support or by telephone at 1-866-607-6301 (TTY: 1-800-267-2797).

    [August 25, 2023: 3:55 PM] - Important Information for Student Financial Assistance Loan Repayments from Evacuated Communities

    We understand the financial hardship being evacuated from your home community has on you.  If you are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of the evacuation, please contact your Finance Officer to discuss options that may be available to assist you during these unprecedented times.

    • If your last name starts with A through M – contact Tara Bower by email at tara_bower@gov.nt.ca
    • If your last name starts with N through Z – contact Huy Ha by email at huy_ha@gov.nt.ca

    Please note, this only applies to borrowers who reside in Dettah, Enterprise, Fort Smith, Hay River, Kátł’odeeche First Nation, Kakisa, N’dilo and Yellowknife.

    [August 25, 2023: 3:55 PM] - United Way Financial Support Clarification

    United Way NWT has been receiving requests for financial support to initial evacuees. United Way NWT cannot provide funding directly to individuals directly.

    If you are seeking financial support please contact a local reception centre or visit the GNWT Financial Support and Donating page. This will be kept up to date with information about financial support programs.

    [August 25, 2023: 3:23 PM] - UPDATE - Evacuation Order – Hay River

    There is an active fire threat in the community of Hay River. All persons, including essential workers, in the Hay River area need to go to the Hay River Merlyn Carter Airport and await further instructions.

    Anyone who remains in Hay River is doing so at their own risk. There will be no emergency services or response available.

    [August 25, 2023: 10:35 AM] - Flights update 

    There are regularly schedule flights for evacuees and essential workers leaving Yellowknife. [Updated] Evacuees must register for a flight. You will be informed on the next scheduled flight time. Once you have a confirmed flight time, go to Sir John Franklin High School for flight registration three (3) hours prior to the scheduled flight departure time. Passengers will be bussed to the airport from the school to board their flight.

    If you are a first responder or essential worker, email NWTEMO_Logistics@gov.nt.ca to register for a flight. Then follow the instructions provided to you by email. 

    [August 25, 2023: 9:43 AM] - Update on Accommodations for Evacuees

    Some residents who are staying in accommodations provided by Alberta Registration Centres may be asked to relocate or change hotels. We understand that being asked to check out of a hotel you have settled into as an evacuee is frustrating. However, some hotels have existing bookings that must be honoured, resulting in the need for evacuees to seek different accommodations. If this has happened to you, please check in with an evacuation centre that has the capacity to support evacuees in order to get assistance finding different accommodations.

    If you have been paying for your accommodations and can no longer do so, please go to an evacuation centre that has the capacity to support evacuees for assistance in finding accommodations. Refunds for previous accommodations will not be provided, but alternate accommodations can be arranged.

    A list of Alberta evacuation centres that have capacity for new evacuees can be found here: https://www.alberta.ca/northwest-territories-wildfire-evacuation

    [August 24, 2023: 3:45 PM] Driver and vehicle services for wildfire evacuees

    Residents can get a 90-day extension for General Identification Cards, driver’s licences and vehicle registrations that have expired or will expire while they are out of the territory due to wildfire evacuation.

    Evacuees who have expired or lost General Identification Cards or driver’s licences, or who have an expired vehicle registration, can contact the Registrar of Motor Vehicles at DVLicensing@gov.nt.ca.

    Read the full PSA here.

    [August 24, 2023: 2:15 PM] Jean Marie River evacuation order lifted. Community remains on evacuation alert. 

    Residents of Jean Marie River can return to the community beginning today. Residents should be aware that the fire is not out, but the areas closest to the community have been suppressed and the north perimeter is secure. The fire will continue to show some activity within the middle of the burn (along the road) and along the south end, but there are swamps and marshes surrounding the east and south sides. 

    Please drive carefully as crews are working on the fire and equipment is stationed on the side of the access road. Also, the area will stay busy for a while as we will continue bucketing the fire with a helicopter.  The crews will continue to mop up this fire, and values protection on cabins will remain for the time being.

    The weather is forecasted to be hot, dry, and windy over the next few days. It is important for the community to be ready to evacuate again if in the off chance the fire picks up and breaches ECC control lines. They will be monitoring this fire very closely.

    Residents should continue to be prepared to leave. Have your vehicles fueled up and personal belongings ready.

    [August 24, 2023: 12:06 PM] Lost or missing NWT health care cards

    If you do not have your NWT health care card with you, contact the Health Services Administration Office by phone (1-800-661-0830 or 867-678-8050) or by email at healthcarecard@gov.nt.ca to request a verification letter. The letter will confirm that you have valid NWT health care coverage. 

    Health Services Administration Office hours of operation: 8:30 am – 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm (Monday to Friday) 

    NIHB clients can call Express Scripts Canada to access their benefit information at 1-888-511- 4666. 

    Alberta Blue Cross clients can access their benefit information by calling 1-800-361-9632.

    [August 23, 2023: 4:25 PM] Groceries and other goods in communities

    Yellowknife, Hay River, Fort Smith and surrounding areas are currently evacuated. This is impacting communities in the NWT who use the larger centres for groceries and other goods. The GNWT is currently engaging with distributors. If your community is experiencing supply concerns, please contact your local distributor. 

    [August 23, 2023: 4:15 PM] Update on court proceedings

    All Territorial Court and Supreme Court proceedings in all communities scheduled from August 16, 2023 and up to and including September 8, 2023 have been cancelled.  Please consult the NWT Courts website for more information.

    [August 23, 2023: 4:15 PM] Update on how to contact persons in correctional centres. 

    Friends and families can communicate with youth and inmates while they are evacuated in the Yukon or Alberta. For information on how to contact youth or inmates in the Yukon, please visit the Whitehorse Correctional Centre’s webpage. To contact inmates in Alberta, please go to Alberta’s Correctional Services webpage.

    [August 23, 2023: 4:15 PM] Update for Housing NWT clients:

    Housing NWT has suspended all collection activity for clients in the evacuated communities.

    Automated rent payments have been suspended for evacuated communities.

    [August 23, 2023: 3:45 PM] Pet retrieval Plan

    The City of Yellowknife (the City) and the NWT SPCA are working together to ensure the safety of pets in our community.
    In the urgency of evacuating, some pets were left behind in homes. Currently, the SPCA is providing water and food to pets in homes that have been identified through contact with the SPCA.
    However, based on the number of requests for pet support and the unknown timeline that evacuees may be out of their homes, we are now working to assist with retrieving pets from homes.
    Those who may have had to leave their pets behind can fill out the Pet Retrieval Form on the City’s Website to request that their pet be checked on. This form must have the consent of the homeowner or tenant. If you are neither of these but are completing a form, ensure to contact those individuals to get consent.
    Teams including Municipal Enforcement Division members, a locksmith, and animal care specialists, will go into homes to ensure the safety of pets. A plan will be made by staff about how to continue care for the animal, based on information in the form provided by the owner.

    [August 23, 2023: 2:30 PM] Update on Alberta evacuation centres

    Though many evacuees have found accommodation in towns and cities throughout Alberta, many more continue to arrive each day.

    The province is working closely with host communities to monitor their capacity to accept and support new evacuees.

    Evacuees who have found accommodation are encouraged to stay in their current location. There is no guarantee that other locations will have capacity to support you once you arrive at another evacuation centre.

    [August 23, 2023: 12:00 PM] Do not return to evacuated communities 

    Please don't return to evacuated communities, it is not safe to return. We know being away from home is stressful and frustrating, but the safety of Northwest Territories residents is our number one priority. By attempting to return to an evacuated area, you put yourself and fire fighters at risk, while negatively impacting firefighting efforts.

    [August 23, 2023: 11:30 AM] Income Assistance

    If you are an Income Assistance recipient and were evacuated from Enterprise, Fort Smith, Hay River, Kátł’odeeche First Nation, N'Dilo, Dettah or Yellowknife, you do not need to reapply for Income Assistance for September 2023. This payment will be automatically made to you. Clients from communities that have not been evacuated, will still need to submit the monthly reporting form and supporting documentation.

    If you are an Income Assistance client from a community that has evacuated, any income and/or donations received through Indigenous Governments, family, friends or other organizations during the evacuation period will be exempted and not counted in your next assessment. We recognize that this is a difficult time for all residents and hope this may ease some of the financial hardship. For more information visit: Financial Support and Donating | Government of Northwest Territories

    [August 23, 2023: 11:30 AM] Licensed Early Learning and Child Care programs

    Licensed early learning and child care programs in communities that have had to evacuate will continue to be provided the Early Childhood Program Operating Subsidy and the Child Care Fee Reduction Subsidy.

    Staff are working remotely to issue payments as quickly as possible and appreciate everyone's patience.

    Additional details have been sent to all licensed programs by email. Please reach out to your Early Childhood Consultant if you have any questions: Early Childhood Consultants | Education, Culture and Employment (gov.nt.ca)

    [August 23, 2023: 11:30 AM] Update on Procurement

    due to the current fire situation in the Northwest Territories, the bid/proposal submission deadlines for all open, public procurement events are extended to 15:00 (local time) August 31, 2023. 

    Unless confirmed through separate addenda, the bid/proposal submission deadlines for all open, public, procurement opportunities are extended to 15:00 (local time) August 31, 2023.

    If a further extension is needed, it will be confirmed through separate addenda.

    [August 23, 2023: 11:30 AM] Update on recruitment activities

    Due to wildfire activity, multiple NWT communities have been ordered to evacuate. As a result, job postings in these areas may be placed on hold or delayed.

    We appreciate your patience; Human Resources will continue to monitor and recruitment activities will resume once it is safe to do so. 

    [August 22, 2023: 1:57 PM] - Update on Student Financial Assistance

    Yesterday we shared information on the documents that students need to send to the SFA office to receive payment. The notice said that students should send Form D, Form E and an official copy of transcripts. Student receiving Remissible and/or Repayable Loans will also need to submit their Loan Agreement.

    We ask that students be patient as they may experience delays due to the complexities of releasing payments remotely. Staff can be reached at nwtsfa@gov.nt.ca.

    [August 22, 2023: 11:24 AM] - Garbage Collection in Yellowknife

    Waste bins will be available at three locations starting 5:00 PM Monday, August 21:

    • Recycling depot at the corner of School Draw and Franklin Avenue.
    • In front of City Hall.
    • Co-op Recycling depot at Old Airport

    Do not use curb side bins at this time.

    [August 21, 2023: 4:56 PM] - Update on Student Financial Assistance

    Due to the NWT wildfires and evacuations, SFA staff are working remotely to ensure applications and payments continue to be processed.  We ask that students be patient as they may experience delays due to the complexities of releasing payments remotely. 

    Staff are unable to be reached by telephone at this time so communication is best by email at nwtsfa@gov.nt.ca.

    To receive payments, students will still be required to submit the following documents.  They can be sent by email to nwtsfa@gov.nt.ca or by fax at 1-800-661-0893:

    • Form D – Student Enrolment Form
    • Form E - Payment and Financial Transaction Authorization Form (if a new student or banking information changed)
    • An official copy of your transcript (unofficial copies will be accepted at this time)

    Students receiving Remissible Loans or a Repayable Loan will not be required to sign the Loan Agreement in order to receive September payments.  However, once the evacuation order is lifted, the Loan Agreement will be required to receive funding in the following months.

    [August 21, 2023: 3:15 PM] - Highway 1 Information

    It’s expected there may be short closures on Highway 1 throughout the day, particularly between the section south of Enterprise to the Kakisa Access Road due to a wildfire in the area (km 72 to km 168). Please expect delays if you are travelling in this area and listen to local officials. Residents should be aware that conditions can change quickly with little to no warning. Highway staff are monitoring the situation closely.

    [August 21, 2023: 3:06 PM] - School updates

    Communities under evacuation orders

    • As many residents in the NWT are under evacuation orders, this will likely interrupt the start of the 2023-24 school year in many communities. The safety of students, staff and families is the priority.
    • When it is safe to return, it will be up to education bodies to decide when each school and community will start school.
    • If your community has been evacuated, your education body will keep you posted on school start dates.

    Communities NOT under evacuation orders

    • If your community has NOT been evacuated, there will likely be no changes to the start of school. However, please follow any guidance you receive from your education body, as there may be delays.

    The Department of Education, Culture and Employment is supporting education bodies in this work. If you have questions, you can email ecepublicaffairs@gov.nt.ca.

    [August 21, 2023: 2:31 PM] - Correction to update on relocation of inmates

    Yesterday an update was shared on the relocation of inmates. It stated that 5 youth were air transferred to the Yukon and 85 inmates were air transferred to Alberta.

    There has been a correction to this information. Five youth and 1 adult were air transferred to the Yukon.

    [August 21, 2023: 1:52 PM] - Court Proceedings

    All Territorial Court proceedings in all communities scheduled from August 16, 2023 and up to and including August 25, 2023 are hereby cancelled.  Please consult this notice for more information: Courts of the Northwest Territories (nwtcourts.ca). Directives will be posted to the NWT Courts website if further changes are required. 

    [August 21, 2023: 12:03 PM] - Update for Housing NWT clients

    Housing NWT clients in public housing will have their rent prorated for communities that have been evacuated.

    There will be no late fees applied to evacuees.

    District Offices and Local Housing Organizations will work with evacuees when it is safe to return home.

    For emergencies, please call the Housing NWT Toll-Free Number: 1-844-NWT-HOME (1-844-698-4663)

    [August 20, 2023: 6:32 PM] - Highway 1 closed between Enterprise and Kakisa Access Road (km 87 to km 168)

    Tonight (August 20) it's expected Highway 1 will open and close frequently between the Enterprise and Kakisa Access Road due to a wildfire (km 87 to km 168). Residents and those travelling in the area should be aware that conditions can change quickly with little to no warning. Listen to local officials. 

    [August 20, 2023: 6:02 PM] - Highway 1 closed between Enterprise and Kakisa Access Road (km 87 to km 168)

    Highway 1 is closed between Enterprise and Kakisa Access Road due to a wildfire (km 87 to km 168)

    Residents and those travelling in the area should be aware that conditions can change quickly with little to no warning.

    Do not call NWT Fire for highway updates. Please check the NWT Highway Conditions Map for the latest updates: https://www.dot.gov.nt.ca/Highways

    [August 20, 2023: 4:45 PM] - Update on relocation of inmates

    All inmates from the Fort Smith Correctional Complex and South Mackenzie Correctional Centre were previously evacuated to Yellowknife given evacuation orders in their respective communities. Due to the recent evacuation order in Yellowknife, the Corrections Service can confirm that 5 youth were air transferred to the Yukon and 85 inmates were air transferred  to Alberta. Inmates have telephone access to stay in touch with family members. For safety and security reasons, the Corrections Service does not disclose details related to contingencies and specific locations for inmate transfers.

    [August 20, 2023: 4:27 PM] - BC Family Support Line

    BC has set up a Family Support Line at 1-844-824-2219 (toll-free) and they will help provide info for family of in-patients from Stanton Territorial Hospital who were moved to BC.

    If you are in BC and are an NWT evacuee you can call 604-875-4953 for health services to receive health care.

    [August 20, 2023: 3:46 PM] - Update on Today's Evacuation Flights

    • [Update] The phone number previously published for this service is no longer being used for this purpose. The number has been removed. 
    • There is a flight scheduled for 8:00 PM on August 20th.
    • Anyone who needs a flight out of Yellowknife can either call [removed] to register for the next flight, or go to the air evacuation registration centre at Sir. John Franklin. It will be open daily 900 a.m. to 9:00PM
    • Once a flight is arranged, anyone who has registered for a flight will be asked to go to Sir John with their luggage and ready to fly by a specified time and will be shuttled from Sir John Franklin High School to the Airport.
    • If you need a ride to the Registration Centre, call [removed] and we will arrange to have a vehicle pick you up and bring you to Sir John.

    [August 20, 2023: 3:11 PM] - Update on evacuees flown to Winnipeg 

    • 15 people and 5 pets were flown to Winnipeg August 19
      • Evacuees requiring services were brought to Fairfield Inn and Suites in Winnipeg
      • Other evacuees chose to stay with friends and family, or move on to other locations. 
    • Evacuees travelling on their own should go to one of the registration centres in Alberta

    [August 20, 2023: 12:05 PM] - Service Canada

    In response to the wildfire situation in NWT, Service Canada is providing resources and supports to evacuees and those impacted by the wildfires. The resources that Service Canada is offering includes:

    • Employment insurance (EI) applications
    • SIN applications
    • My Service Canada Account
    • Canada Pension Plan or Old Age Security application
    • Passport applications

    [August 20, 2023: 10:05 AM] - 9-1-1

    The Government of the Northwest Territories would like to reassure residents of the continued operation of NWT 9-1-1. We have temporarily moved our operations to a secured alternate facility outside of the evacuation areas and there is no disruption in service. Residents should continue to call 9-1-1 in case of an emergency.

    Should damage to telecommunications infrastructure effect the ability for calls to be routed to 9-1-1, residents can call our temporary alternate emergency number of 780-513-5731. In the absence of telecommunications, residents should proceed directly to their local health centre or RCMP detachment for assistance.

    [August 19, 2023: 12:21 PM] - Update on Today's Evacuation Flights

    [Update] The phone number previously published for this service is no longer being used for this purpose. The number has been removed. 

    There are evacuation flights available today leaving from Yellowknife. The next flight is scheduled for 4pm and is available for members of the public, including essential workers who have been released. To register, please go to Sir John Franklin High School with your bags and pets by 2PM. If you need a ride to the Registration Centre, call [removed].

    [August 19, 2023: 11:25 AM] - Gas facilities at Steen River, AB

    Gas facilities at Steen River, AB will be closed effective 9PM tonight (August 19, 2023). There is gasoline available at the Big River Service Station and in High Level, AB and there is no longer a need for the additional temporary facilities in Steen River, AB.

    [August 18, 2023 5:01 PM] - Update on Evacuation Centres and Locations

    Evacuees who are travelling by road and have yet to reach an evacuation centre should check the Government of Alberta’s website to find the most recent list of evacuation centres that has capacity and is still accepting new evacuees.

    Remaining evacuation flights from Yellowknife will be directed to Winnipeg, MB.

    Information about the location of evacuation centres in Winnipeg will be available shortly.

    [August 18, 2023 2:33 PM] - Mulitplex Evacuation Centre to Close

    The Evacuation Center at the Multiplex is currently empty. Residents are either sheltering in place in homes, or they have been evacuated. We will be closing the Multiplex facility at 5pm.

    If your sheltering situation changes, please go to Sir John School to register for an evacuation flight.

    [August 18, 2023 9:45 AM] - Available gas to those evacuating by vehicle

    In the NWT, gas is available in the community of Fort Providence. Once you cross the boarder to Alberta, it is available at Steen River (Friday until 6PM, Saturday 24 hours), Meander River and High Level.

    [August 18, 2023 8:49 AM] - Assistance Getting to the Registration Centre

    [Update] The phone number previously published for this service is no longer being used for this purpose. The number has been removed. 

    If you need a ride to the Registration Centre at Sir John, call [removed]. We will arrange to come pick you up and bring you to the centre.

    [August 18, 2023 8:45 AM] - Number of vehicles that departed the NWT on Thursday, August 18.

    3,699 vehicles were tracked southbound on the Deh Cho Bridge on Thursday, August 18.

    [August 18, 2023 8:21 AM] - Report to the Registration Centre (Sir John) Immediately
    Evacuation flights are leaving hourly and passengers are being processed quickly. Please proceed to Sir John Franklin High School prepared to fly.

    Due to space and weight limitations, bag size is limited to standard carry-on. Passengers are asked to bring no more than 5 days’ worth of clothing, as well as essentials such as medication, chargers and important family documents including identification, insurance and bank records.

    • Residents are also asked to bring snacks and a water bottle with them as there may be an extended time between registration and arrival at the evacuation destination.
    • Pets will be permitted on all flights, with the following restrictions:
      • On commercial carriers, pets must be crated.
      • On Royal Canadian Air Force aircraft, pets should be crated whenever possible. If crates are not available, cats must be harnessed, dogs must be leashed and both must be held as close as possible at all times. Other pets must be contained in appropriate cages.

    [August 17, 2023 6:45 PM] - Open services in Yellowknife

    Below is a list of services that remain open in Yellowknife to supply and accommodate essential workers and those sheltering in place.

    For detailed information visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety-1.

    Services that remain open:

    Pharmacies

    • Sutherland's Drugs Ltd

    Gas Stations

    • Co-op Gas Bar

    *Other gas stations are closed due to lack of staff and/or gas shortages*

    Grocery Stores

    • Yellowknife Co-op

    [August 17, 2023 5:40PM] - Update on evacuation flights

    Today, not including passengers on scheduled flights and private charters, 1,043 people are being airlifted from Yellowknife on evacuation flights.

    There are currently 21 evacuation flights with nearly 2,000 seats available scheduled on Friday, August 18. Depending on turnaround of flights and need, additional flights can be organized for Saturday, August 19.

    [August 17, 2023 2:45PM] - Update on evacuation flights

    Today's evacuation flights are nearing capacity and will be filled with the next 200-400 people in line at Sir John Franklin High School. This number will vary depending on the addition of two flights later this evening. Staff on site will advise those in line if they should stay or leave.

    Registration will re-open at 6AM at Sir John Franklin High School. An extensive flight schedule for Friday, August 18 and Saturday, August 19 is being developed. The first flight scheduled to depart on Friday is at 8AM, with passengers being bussed to the airport at 7AM.

    We understand that this is deeply frustrating for those who have been in line for several hours and who will need to line up again tomorrow. Many individuals with mobility issues and who are immunocompromised or have a condition that puts them at higher risk of severe outcomes due to smoke were moved up in line, and we would like to thank everyone for their cooperation in making this happen.

    Weather delays have complicated today’s flight schedule, and we are working as quickly as possible to schedule passengers on evacuation flights.

    It is safe for residents who have a vehicle and are able to drive to evacuate by road. Carpooling is encouraged to reduce traffic and assist those who do not have access to a vehicle. Evacuation flights should be used as a last resort for those who do not have the option to evacuate by road.