This past long weekend 21 new wildfires – almost all lightning caused – were detected across the Yukon, including 15 in the Dawson area. Strong detection efforts combined with aggressive initial attack have led to good success.
Of the 10 Dawson fires that require a full response, 6 are either under control or being held. The Bertha Creek fire (DA-006) is the largest full-response fire at 25 hectares in size. There are currently no communities or critical infrastructure at risk, though smoke may be visible through the Dawson goldfields.
In Carmacks, people could see the 10-hectare Merrice Lake fire (CA-006) on Saturday, which was discovered about 30 kilometres north of the community that evening. It is now being held as wildfire crews have put out hot spots up to 20 feet from the fire’s edge and work towards a 100-foot heat-free perimeter.
As crews make progress managing fires, rain and cooler temperatures are forecast for many parts of the Yukon this week, which could decrease expected fire behaviour and new fire danger. However, lightning is also expected in some areas in the coming days, so new wildfires are still possible.
The period near summer solstice is the most active period of the Yukon wildfire season. Your safe campfire use prevents human-caused wildfires. Help us respond quickly by reporting suspected wildfires as soon as possible at 1-888-798-FIRE (3473).
You can also find detailed wildfire facts on the Wildfire Hub: https://wildfires.service.yukon.ca
Contact
Mike Fancie
Fire Information Officer, Wildland Fire Management
867-393-7415 or [email protected]