Mayor of Dawson City calls for preparedness as nearby wildfires trigger evacuation alerts across Yukon. Officials emphasize calm and readiness.

Mayor Calls for Calm as Fires Approach Dawson City

As wildfires continue to burn across Yukon, Dawson City Mayor Stephen Johnson is urging residents to remain calm but prepared. While the fires are not currently threatening the town directly, evacuation alerts are in place, and the mayor is encouraging residents to have a plan in case the situation changes.

Fires Prompt Multiple Evacuation Alerts in Yukon

As of Sunday afternoon, three evacuation alerts remain active in Yukon. The Mount Leotta fire threatens properties along the North Klondike Highway near the Dempster Highway cutoff and Henderson Corner. Meanwhile, the Quebec Creek fire is burning near West Dawson and Sunnydale, prompting alerts for areas along the Top of the World Highway. A third alert is active near Mayo, where the North Ferry Hill fire is advancing toward the Silver Trail Highway area.

Fire Response Efforts Underway Across the Territory

Wildfire crews have deployed structure protection equipment around homes closest to the Mount Leotta and Quebec Creek fires. According to wildfire information officer Haley Ritchie, these measures ensure rapid response if the fires advance. As of the latest update, the Quebec Creek fire remains about 10 kilometres from Upper West Dawson and 800 metres from the highway, while the Mount Leotta fire has grown to 17 square kilometres but was held south of the North Klondike Highway.

Travel Routes Affected as Fires Near Infrastructure

Fires have disrupted key Yukon highways. The North Klondike Highway was closed temporarily but reopened with pilot car shuttles. The Top of the World Highway remains technically open under a travel advisory, though local signs indicated intermittent closures. Yukon Highways and Public Works continues to shuttle vehicles where conditions permit to keep essential routes open for emergency crews.

Emergency Control Group Offers Reassurance and Resources

Dawson City’s emergency control group—comprising municipal officials, the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in First Nation, and Yukon Government representatives—is coordinating the local response. Spokesperson Paul Robitaille said the group is confident in the firefighting resources deployed but urged vigilance, particularly for RV travellers using the George Black ferry, which is prioritized for emergency operations.

Residents Prepare, Some Unsure Where to Go

Residents in affected areas like Henderson Corner and West Dawson are preparing for potential evacuation. Some, like Anna Radzimirska, have bags packed but remain uncertain about where they would go if ordered to leave. Others, including Jesse Cooke of West Dawson, are leaning on community support while making contingency plans. A temporary shelter may be set up at Robert Service School if an evacuation order is issued.

Local Businesses Stay Calm Amid Disruption

Despite the wildfire activity, Dawson’s grocery supply chain remains stable. Store owner Kyler Mather reports no panic buying and no concern about inventory disruptions. “We’re always well stocked,” he said, noting the store’s bulk shipping model from Edmonton and revamped storage systems. Mather, like many long-time residents, remains calm, emphasizing preparedness over panic.

Wildfire Outlook Remains Uncertain

As of Sunday morning, 63 wildfires were burning in the Yukon, including 17 sparked by lightning on Saturday. Officials continue to monitor fire progression and advise residents to stay updated via Yukon government websites and local bulletins. While the situation remains fluid, the message from leadership is clear: be alert, have a plan, and stay calm.

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