Government of Nunavut response to NWT wildfires

The Government of Nunavut (GN) is monitoring the wildfire situation in the Northwest Territories (NWT), which is under a territorial state of emergency. In Yellowknife, an evacuation alert is in effect for some residents.

The GN is committed to supporting the GNWT, and the two governments are in regular contact to determine what help the GN can provide.

GN departments are working to ensure Nunavummiut affected by these wildfires are safe.

The Department of Health is working to move medical travellers and escorts out of Yellowknife to receive care in partnered jurisdictions, or return to their home communities upon medical clearance and discharge. Any remaining travellers will be taken to Edmonton.

The GN advises Nunavummiut to consider delaying any non-essential and duty travel to the affected region.

For Nunavummiut currently in the NWT, please stay alert to your surroundings and monitor the Government of the Northwest Territories’ website and local radio, and follow the instructions of local authorities.

For questions and concerns regarding upcoming medical appointments, please contact your local health centre. Individuals with questions regarding medical travel scheduled in Yellowknife may contact Kitikmeot Medical Travel toll-free at 1-844-886-8010 or, after hours, 983-4506 and 983-5196.

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Media Contact:

Casey Lessard
Director, Communications
Executive and Intergovernmental Affairs
867-975-6004 / 867-223-0422
clessard2@gov.nu.ca