Officials in the Northwest Territories have ordered residents of Yellowknife to evacuate as wildfires burn just outside the city's borders.
"The fire continues to advance and now burns approximately 17 kilometres outside the city," Northwest Territories Minister of Environment and Climate Change Shane Thompson told reporters at a news conference Wednesday night. "Without rain, it is possible it will reach the city outskirts by the weekend."The order comes a day after a state of emergency was declared in the city, which is the territorial capital and home to 20,000 residents.
Westwick adds crews will also be on the ground laying down fire retardant across the city's perimeter. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces, including 124 soldiers, are prepared to mobilize in the territory as flames threaten communities and hundreds of civilians are airlifted to safety. One hundred soldiers are set to help with firefighting logistics, such as dousing hot spots and clearing areas.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Yellowknife declares state of local emergency due to wildfires in Northwest TerritoriesThe city said the declaration will ensure the community 'can exercise precautionary practices and acquire the equipment and resources needed to keep Yellowknife safe.'
Read more »
Large evacuations proving difficult in Northwest Territories as wildfires rageWatch Large evacuations proving difficult in Northwest Territories as wildfires rage Video Online, on GlobalNews.ca
Read more »
Northwest Territories declares territorial state of emergency amid wildfiresThe Government of the Northwest Territories officially declared a territorial state of emergency on Tuesday in response to out-of-control wildfires in the territory.
Read more »