Yellowknife Wildfire Preparedness

AUGUST 5, 2023

The City of Yellowknife would like to update residents on proactive actions we are taking  in response to Behchokǫ̀/ Yellowknife Fire ZF015, which is currently burning 37km northwest of Yellowknife.

As dry and windy conditions are forecast to continue throughout the weekend and upcoming weeks, the City is working closely with experts from the GNWT Department of Environment and Climate Change to mitigate any potential future risk to Yellowknife. Based on expert advice, work to install sprinklers and establish firebreaks is planned to begin this weekend on the west side of the city.  Residents may see large equipment operating in these areas as crews commence operations.

The City wants to stress that our community is not currently at threat.  These measures are precautionary, and more information on the situation will become available as it develops. The City urges residents to remain vigilant and keep fire safety a priority this long weekend. The City’s Evacuation Framework Overview can be found on its website, and additional information about emergency preparedness can be found on the GNWT’s and Federal Government’s websites.

Residents looking for more information on firesmarting their own properties can find information on the City’s website.

For the most up-to-date information please visit www.yellowknife.ca, www.nwtfire.com and follow the City’s social media pages, as well as NWT Fire’s Facebook page.