The Wistigo Lake fire in 22 kilometers northwest of Hall Lake. (Facebook/Cook-Searson Tammy Jim)

By Derek Cornet

fires

Hall Lake evacuees allowed to return as Wistigo fire poses no current threat

May 25, 2023 | 2:31 PM

Residents of Hall Lake have been given the go ahead to return to their homes.

Approximately 230 residents evacuated the community on May 16 as smoke from the Wistigo Lake fire, which is still uncontained, became an issue. Those who left included chronic asthmatic clients, prenatal women, children under five years old and Elders in the communities of Hall Lake, Sikachu, Clam Bridge, Partridge Crop and Besnard Lake. They stayed in hotels in Prince Albert for the last week.

Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook-Searson released a statement telling evacuees buses had arrived at the Travelodge during noon hour to aid in their return home.

“To the community of Sucker River and Hall Lake, please be advised that the Wistigo fire and Sharp fire currently poses no threat to our areas. Stay vigilant, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely,” she stated. “Your safety is our priority. Thank you for your patience and cooperation during this challenging time.”

As of May 24, the Wistigo Lake fire was 22 kilometers northwest of Hall Lake and was 62,766 hectares in size. Earlier this week, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency had dozers complete a fire guard around the community.

World Championships

Power, Cozens lead Canada to 5-3 win over Finland at hockey worlds

May 18, 2024

muskwa lake

Province invests in permanent addictions treatment funding in Pinehouse Lake

May 16, 2024

staff shortage

New incentive offers up to $10K signing bonus for northern teachers

May 14, 2024

Another fire posing a risk is the Spark fire, uncontained, located five kilometers from Sucker River. It has a size of 9,845 hectares and is impacting Sucker River, McKay Lake and Wadin Bay.

As of May 25, there were 24 fires burning in Saskatchewan. There have been 187 fires so far this year. The five-year average is 111.

A special air quality statement from Environment and Climate Change Canada remains in effect. Smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.

–

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @saskjourno