Access into Hay River is still restricted at this time, and is currently only open to essential workers.
The latest update reports that crews are working to control the fire at key locations at Delancey, the river area by the airport, and a small area east of Riverwoods and into KFN boundaries. Once these areas have been secured, a timeline for re-entry can be discussed.
Fire crews were recently deployed to begin blacklining work at the fire’s edges and past its boundaries. There is more smoke in the air today which is expected to increase throughout the week. While Hay River did see some rain this weekend, there was still a few flare ups, and a warming trend is expected to continue, making efforts more challenging.
Crews have been checking in on already protected structures in KFN and Kakisa to make sure their efforts have been successful. More checks will be made soon, with maintenance will be done where it is needed. Helicopters are continuing to complete drops on especially hot areas of the fire and are prepared to combat any future flare ups. Crews have been making use of hand tools and hoses to dig up and clear hotspots.
Rainfall relief is already beginning to fade in the area. There is still a high level of risk to Hay River and the surrounding area – where fire has reached many populated areas, is within a half kilometre of the hospital and industrial area across from downtown, and very close to the main road in and out of town.
