Thousands Flee Yellowknife as Wildfire Moves Closer to City

Residents of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories were in a rush to evacuate their homes on Thursday as a wildfire moved closer to the city of 20,000. The fire was located within 10 miles of the city’s northern edge, and officials were worried that strong northern winds could push the flames toward the only highway leading away from the fire.

As a result, 1,500 passengers were flown out of Yellowknife on Thursday, according to Jennifer Young, director of corporate affairs for the Northwest Territories. Thousands of other residents have fled, driving hundreds of kilometers to safety or waiting in long lines for emergency flights.

The fire is part of a larger wildfire season in Canada that has been the worst on record. According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center, there have been 8,000 wildfires in the country since April 1, burning over 4.6 million hectares (11.4 million acres) of land.

The Canadian government has deployed military personnel and aircraft to help fight the fires, and has also provided financial assistance to those affected. The government has also asked for international help, with the United States, Mexico, and Australia sending firefighters and aircraft.

The situation in Yellowknife is a reminder of the devastating effects of the wildfire season in Canada. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow the advice of local authorities.