Wildfires in northwest Saskatchewan force 200+ evacuations and road closures. Communities brace as fires threaten access and air quality.
Fires Ignite Urgent Evacuations in Remote Communities
New wildfires in northwest Saskatchewan have triggered the evacuation of nearly 200 residents from remote communities, prompting emergency measures and travel disruptions. As of Wednesday afternoon, highways and key access routes were closed, with residents urged to remain alert as the situation evolves rapidly.
Areas Affected and Road Closures
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) confirmed that Highways 198 and 165 near Beauval were shut down by 3:30 p.m. CST on Wednesday. Communities under evacuation orders include the Hamlet of Lac La Plonge, the Lac La Plonge reserve (part of the English River First Nation), and the Bear Creek resort subdivision. Beauval remains under a voluntary evacuation order, with residents advised to prepare for immediate departure.
Wildfire Surge and Weather Conditions
According to SPSA operations vice-president Steve Roberts, fire activity increased significantly on the province’s west side over the weekend. Although most new wildfires remain small, several have grown large enough to cut off road access and endanger nearby communities. As of Wednesday, 65 wildfires were active, with 20 deemed uncontained. The province has already recorded 327 wildfires this year—far exceeding the five-year average of 185 by this date.
Lightning Strikes Blamed for New Fires
Roberts attributed the surge in fires to recent thunderstorms. While rainfall helped control some major blazes, it came with thousands of lightning strikes that sparked new fires in dry forested areas. “The same storms that helped us also hurt us,” said Roberts during the wildfire briefing.
Lac La Plonge Faces Immediate Threat
The Lac La Plonge reserve faces a nearby wildfire just six kilometres away. Dale Apesis, a local emergency management official, confirmed that 80% of the roughly 100 residents have evacuated—most relocating to Cold Lake, Alberta, while others were sent to Saskatoon and Prince Albert. Protective measures like sprinkler systems and water tanks have been installed. Updates are being shared via the English River First Nation’s emergency Facebook page.
Beauval Declares Emergency, Advises Precaution
Beauval, located about 300 kilometres northwest of Saskatoon, has declared a state of emergency. Mayor Rick Laliberte confirmed that the Muskeg fire lies just 12 kilometres away. “The smoke is incredible. Once the wind picks up, these fires become beasts,” he said. Residents are asked to prepare go-bags with essentials and register their status through the village and SPSA app. Pet care arrangements are also being made as part of the evacuation plan.
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