A wildfire blocks Highway 918, isolating Patuanak, Sask., and stranding 700 residents as emergency crews fly in essential supplies and medical help.
Northern Community Cut Off as Wildfire Blocks Only Road
About 700 residents of Patuanak, a remote hamlet in northern Saskatchewan, have been left stranded after a fast-moving wildfire severed their only road access. The fire blocked Highway 918 earlier this week, making it impossible for vehicles to enter or exit the community, which sits roughly 425 kilometres north of Saskatoon.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures Underway
Though isolated, the community is not in immediate danger, according to emergency officials. Candyce Paul, emergency management coordinator for the English River First Nation, confirmed that the closest wildfire remains approximately 60 kilometres away. Power had briefly been lost after utility poles were damaged, but SaskPower crews quickly restored service.
“Our emergency management team is stationed at the La Plonge reserve and is actively preparing for all possible outcomes,” said Paul.
Medical and Essential Supplies Delivered by Air and Water
Despite the road closure, critical services remain functional in Patuanak. Medical teams, including nurses, have reached the hamlet by boat, while supplies such as pharmaceuticals are being delivered by air. Paul noted that individuals with complex health needs were evacuated earlier and many are now safe in Cold Lake, Alberta.
“Ninety percent of those requiring evacuation have already left,” she confirmed.
Beauval Tightens Access, Evacuates Most Residents
Further south, the Village of Beauval, located about 90 kilometres from Patuanak, has now restricted road access to prevent non-essential entry. While exit routes remain open, more than 75 percent of Beauval’s population has been evacuated. The nearby La Plonge reserve has also completed its evacuation.
John Rediron, a Beauval evacuee, said he and others arrived safely in Saskatoon late Thursday. “Everyone’s been very supportive and constantly checking in on us,” he said, though uncertainty remains about when they can return home.
Mail Service and Community Alerts Impacted
Canada Post issued red service alerts for both Beauval and Patuanak. The post office in Beauval is currently closed, with mail held securely off-site. Although Patuanak’s post office remains open, wildfire-related disruptions have halted incoming mail deliveries.
Wildfire Crisis Worsens Across Saskatchewan
As of Friday afternoon, Saskatchewan reported 63 active wildfires. Of these, 17 are uncontained, 25 are under assessment, and 11 are being managed to protect key infrastructure or property. Ten fires are listed as contained.
The province has recorded 334 wildfires this season—well above the five-year average of 195. Over $5.5 million has already been distributed through the government’s emergency payment program, which offers $500 per adult evacuee.
Other communities still under evacuation include the resort area of Lac La Plonge and the northern village of Kinoosao. However, the evacuation order for Bear Creek was lifted by noon on Friday.
Ongoing Monitoring and Provincial Support
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency continues to monitor the wildfire situation closely. While the risk to Patuanak remains low for now, officials emphasize that the situation can shift rapidly depending on wind and weather patterns.
Efforts remain focused on maintaining essential services and planning contingencies in case a full evacuation becomes necessary.
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