Wildfires in Yukon Expand Rapidly, Prompting Evacuations and Power Disruptions

Firefighters in Yukon have expressed concern over the rapid expansion of wildfires threatening the Dawson region. The Quebec Creek fire has surged notably from 15 square kilometers to 34 square kilometers, spurred by recent weather conditions, and is now situated just 10 kilometers from Upper West Dawson. According to a update from the territory's Emergency Coordination Centre, the intensity of the blaze has complicated direct firefighting efforts, as highlighted in a Facebook post from Yukon Protective Services.

Additionally, the Mount Leotta fire, which poses a risk to the Henderson Corner-Dempster Cutoff area, has also experienced growth, jumping from nine to 17 square kilometers. As a result, approximately 80 homes are now on evacuation alert due to the threatening nature of these fires, with smoke becoming highly noticeable in Dawson and expected to persist for the upcoming week. The situation has forced the de-energization of power lines supplying Dawson, leading to reliance on diesel backup for the city's electricity needs, while some residents may face power outages.

Despite ongoing challenges, the local airport is still operational; however, the government warns of potential difficulties landing larger aircraft due to visibility issues caused by smoke. Local highways have also faced interruptions, particularly with the North Klondike Highway closure from Henderson Corner to the Tintina Trench lookout, alongside piloted vehicle shuttles being organized as conditions permit. The Top of the World Highway is still open, but motorists are cautioned to be prepared for possible closures related to the Quebec Creek fire. To alleviate congestion on local ferry services, particularly the George Black Ferry and West Dawson, RVs are advised to stay on the Dawson side during highway closures.

In a bid to combat the wildfires, eight initial-attack crews and a substantial airtanker have been dispatched from the BC Wildfire Service. Moreover, the Yukon government has reinstated a level-three fire restriction across much of the area, restricting outdoor fires to those contained in pits and other secure containers. Residents are urged to exercise caution, especially in windy conditions, ensuring that any outdoor flames are fully extinguished before departing. Meanwhile, Environment Canada has forecasted high temperatures in the Yukon, with possible thunderstorms expected over the next couple of days, complicating the wildfire situation further. Currently, approximately 60 wildfires are active in the territory, with more than 40 of these started by lightning since mid-June.