Overview

• Territorial officials say the top-priority fire expanded roughly four kilometres and is now about 8–8.5 kilometres southwest of Whatì, with evacuation planning active.
• Winds eased and shifted north on Thursday but are forecast to turn southerly again on Friday, which could push the blaze closer to the community.
• Sprinkler lines are being set up around Whatì and a water barrier is being built along the lone road out; evacuees would relocate to Behchokǫ́ by road if ordered.
• Environment Canada rated regional air quality a very high health risk, and the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre reports crews are tackling 10 out-of-control fires in the territory during hot, drought conditions.
• Separately, Manitoba committed $150,000 to Tracia’s Trust to support anti-exploitation teams, Winnipeg crews contained a Kennedy Street high-rise fire to one suite with no hospitalizations, and Edmonton police are investigating a skateboarder struck by a vehicle.