Government of Yukon provides mid-season wildfire briefing

Despite a cool start in the south, central Yukon – particularly Dawson, Mayo and Keno – has faced an intense fire season since mid-June, with wildfires affecting communities, highways and infrastructure.

This period of hot, dry conditions and frequent lightning led to 130 wildfires so far and 122,459 hectares burned. Despite challenges, crews have successfully contained multiple fires through rapid response.

The territory also called on out-of-territory support from British Columbia, Alberta, Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. A total of 192 personnel were deployed to the Yukon. Early in the year, the Yukon was able to support its neighbours by sending 50 Yukon fire personnel to Alberta, B.C., Saskatchewan, Alaska and Oregon. This included 30 Wildland Fire Management and 20 Yukon First Nations Wildfire personnel.

Favourable weather has aided suppression efforts and all evacuation alerts are now rescinded Yukon-wide. Firefighting operations continue to work on bringing fires under control for the remainder of fire season.

Currently, 93 active fires remain, mostly in Dawson and Mayo. Yukoners are encouraged to take preventative measures using FireSmart principles, be careful while using fire, make an emergency plan and emergency kit for their household and stay informed.

Wildland Fire Management remains vigilant as the season continues and emphasizes that community preparedness is key to wildfire resilience.