Seven new fires in NWT, more thunderstorms expected

NWT Fire says seven new wildfires were reported in the past day, all caused by lightning, with more storms forecast in the days ahead.

In a Friday afternoon update, the territory’s wildfire agency reported a new fire nine kilometres southwest of Fort Good Hope and about five kilometres south of the Mackenzie River.

“Crews and aircraft have been dispatched to perform an initial attack to suppress its growth. Structure protection will be installed on any values in the area as needed,” NWT Fire stated.

Three new fires were reported between 60 km and 70 km east of Inuvik. In the Dehcho, two fires were reported well north of Wrigley and one 23 km southeast of Fort Simpson.

“Water tankers and helicopters were quick in their initial attack to suppress the fire’s growth. There is no risk to the community, cabins, or infrastructure at this time,” NWT Fire said of that fire.

Heavy smoke is expected to continue in the Dehcho.

More generally, NWT Fire said, “dry conditions with thunderstorms are expected to persist” across the territory throughout the weekend.

Meanwhile, Parks Canada said one fire has been extinguished inside Wood Buffalo National Park.

In a Friday evening update, the federal agency said a fire spotted about two kilometres west of the Pine Lake campground had been quickly put out “thanks to the strong response efforts of the fire crew.”