Rainfall eases wildfire danger in northern Saskatchewan, prompting fire ban lift and community recovery efforts.
Three Major Wildfires Declared Contained
The Ditch, Shoe, and Wolf wildfires—three of the most destructive in Saskatchewan this year—are now officially contained. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) confirmed the progress Thursday, crediting recent rainfall for the turnaround in firefighting efforts.
Rainfall Brings Critical Relief
Over the past several days, precipitation between 5 and 20 millimetres fell across northern fire zones. SPSA operations vice-president Steve Roberts said the rainfall allowed crews to strengthen containment lines and reduced the risk to nearby communities and infrastructure.
A Season Marked by Record Losses
This wildfire season ranks among the worst in provincial history, forcing evacuations in 38 communities and causing record destruction of homes and other structures in northern forests. While no highways were closed as of Thursday afternoon, smoky conditions remain in some areas.
Emergency Resources Adjusted
With containment improving, SPSA has released some external firefighting resources, including Quebec air tankers and Australian crews. However, 300 Canadian Armed Forces members remain to assist with firefighting and cleanup. Additional personnel from Parks Canada, Ontario, Yukon, Mexico, and North Dakota are still deployed in the province.
Evacuations Lifted, But Some Still Displaced
Orders have been lifted for Lac La Plonge, Île-à-la-Crosse, Canoe Lake, and Canoe Narrows. Around 1,100 people remain away from home, with Pinehouse, La Plonge Reserve, Jans Bay, Patuanak, and English River First Nation still under evacuation. Vulnerable residents from Beauval also remain displaced for safety.
Recovery Support Underway
Denare Beach and East Trout Lake sustained the most significant property losses. A resiliency centre in Denare Beach is offering assistance from SGI, the Saskatchewan Health Authority, the Canadian Red Cross, and Social Services, supporting about 500 residents. Cleanup and debris removal continue.
Active Fire Count and Local Restrictions
As of Thursday, 75 wildfires remain active. This year’s total of 466 fires is just below last year’s 476 but above the five-year average of 372. The province lifted its fire ban at 11 p.m. CST Wednesday, though municipalities and parks may still enforce local restrictions. Residents are urged to check the SPSA’s fire-ban map or SaskParks updates before lighting fires.
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