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The Northwest Territories wildfire agency says a fire burning near the NWT-Alberta border that gained international attention is now “being held,” thanks to the efforts of fire crews.
In an update on Monday afternoon, NWT Fire said the Cameron Hills holdover wildfire, labelled SS009 by the territory and HTZ001 by Alberta, is not expected to grow with current firefighting efforts and forecasted weather. It said work will continue to bring the fire, which has burned 6,260 hectares, under control.
Alberta Wildfire said the province’s Highway 35 and surrounding roads could still be impacted. It urged motorists to check Alberta 511 before travelling in the area.
NWT Fire said another fire burning north of Fort Smith, labelled SS017, is also now being held. The lightning-cased fire burned 3.5 hectares.
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A total of 41 fires have burned 27,798 hectares across the NWT this year so far. Eighteen of those fires are actively burning, nine of which are considered out of control.
NWT Fire said lighting “swept through the south of the territory” on Sunday and crews are “working aggressively” to detect any new fires and take action. It also reminded residents to properly put out any fires they start as several abandoned campfires and burn piles have been reported this year.
Several communities and parks in the NWT are currently under fire bans.
