Canadian Armed Forces Deployed to Combat Unprecedented Wildfires in Northwest Territories
The Canadian Armed Forces is gearing up to send 124 soldiers and additional equipment to assist in fighting the severe wildfires in the Northwest Territories. The severe wildfires have led to evacuation orders in the region, with the city not considered threatened but residents advised to prepare to leave. The military will provide aid in the form of one helicopter and one Twin Otter to support the ongoing wildfire and emergency response.
Key Takeaways:
- The Canadian Armed Forces will deploy 124 soldiers, one helicopter, and one Twin Otter to assist in firefighting efforts in the Northwest Territories.
- The military's deployment is in response to an unprecedented wildfire season, with significant challenges posed by strong winds and compromised highways.
- The wildfires have led to evacuation orders in multiple areas, including the hamlet of Enterprise, the community of Kakisa, and the territory's capital, Yellowknife.
- The territorial government has reported all long-term care residents and hospital patients were transported to Yellowknife, and 215 people were flown to Grande Prairie, Alta.
- Communications have been significantly impacted, with damage to Northwestel fibre lines and electrical lines, and structure damage in Enterprise.
Statistics:
- 124 soldiers will be deployed to assist with firefighting efforts.
- One helicopter and one Twin Otter will be provided to support the wildfire response.
- The wildfires have led to the evacuation of multiple areas, including Enterprise, Kakisa, and the Territory's capital, Yellowknife.
- 215 people were flown to Grande Prairie, Alta.
- The Kakisa fire was within 25 km of Hay River on Sunday.
- The Wood Buffalo National Park fires cover an area of over 4,300 square kilometres.
Sources:
- N.W.T. fire information officer Mike Westwick
- N.W.T. Premier Caroline Cochrane
- Abbotsford News
- Alberta Wildfire
- NWT Fire
- Northern News Service
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