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There are four active wildfires in the Sahtu right now, leading some municipalities to implement fire bans.
The Fort Good Hope fire remains out of control and has reached the edge of the community, but no structures have been lost.
The fire, called VQ001-24, was last measured at 1,368 hectares on Sunday at 8pm.
“Warm and very dry conditions will prevail at the fire this afternoon and evening,” said NWT Fire in its 6pm update, noting it will be a long burning day.
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Crossover, when relative humidity is equal to or less than the temperature, may occur. Crossover can lead to extreme fire behaviour.
There is a chance of rain showers or thunderstorms on Tuesday near Fort Good Hope, which may lessen crossover conditions.
The Brandy Lake fire (VQ002-24), about 14km from Norman Wells, is under control.
Two crews are still working to extinguish hot spots at the site, and the crews will remain there until the fire is completely out.
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“Swift action by bomber attacks played a crucial role in bringing the fire under control,” the Town of Norman Wells said.
NWT Fire lists the cause of the wildfire as a campfire that escaped.
“Always have water available to extinguish the fire as a precaution. It is up to all residents and individuals to protect our traditional lands from man-made fires,” the town reminded.
The town has also implemented a total fire ban, which means no fires are allowed. Following suit, Tulita also announced a full fire ban, which includes no charcoal barbecues in addition to no open fires.
The hamlet also encouraged people who smoke to dispose of their butts safely and responsibly.
NWT Parks announced a fire ban in MacKinnon Territorial Park that begins immediately and will last until August 1.
“Camp stoves, enclosed barbeques, and propane-fueled cooking and heating devices are permitted for use in NWT Parks, but they must be placed within regulation fire pits and should not emit a flame more than 0.5 metres in diameter and 0.5 metres in height,” wrote the Department of Industry, Tourism, and Investment in a news release on June 17.
There are also two other human-caused fires in the Sahtu. While they are also classified as out of control, they are not threatening any communities or values so they are receiving limited action from NWT Fire.
