Kyle Cliley, acting band manager at Wrigley, NWT, says there has been a great deal of relief among community members after the rain, which threatens the community.
On Thursday, wildfires were causing great fear among residents, but NWT fire officials announced Friday afternoon that rain had aided firefighters.
“This is out of control, but we are seeing progress as our team works hard to protect cabins and homes at Willolek River to the north,” NWT Fire wrote in a Facebook post.
While the NWT still faces 51 active wildfires, only one new fire has occurred within the last 24 hours.
Meanwhile, Yukon is dealing with 21 lightning-related fires in the past 24 hours, particularly around Watson Lake and Mayo, according to an update shared on the area’s Facebook page on Saturday.
According to its website, the region has suffered a total of 87 wildfires this summer. Some active fires of note include a 12-hectare one west of Mayo.
“An air tanker group responded quickly and the fire has now been brought under control by the retardant,” the area wrote on Saturday.
Firefighters are working to control a serious fire about one hectare to the southwest of Watson Lake and five kilometers southeast of Upper Liard. Yukon Protective Services said two helicopters came out to douse the fire but the crew was in the process of dousing the fire.
Evacuations were reported to any potential camper as the fire broke out near Frances Lake Campground.
Officials are now identifying the best way to protect structures near the campground.
