More than 30 communities in northern Saskatchewan are now evacuated as wildfires rage across the region. Officials reported 64 active wildfires. Nine were contained, 19 were not contained, 25 required assessment, and 11 were classified as "protecting values.” However, the fire activity intensified significantly.Over 9,000 residents are evacuated, with estimates suggesting up to 15,000 people have fled their homes. Significant property losses occurred, including more than 400 structures. .Key losses include the air tanker base at La Ronge Airport, cabins at Jaysmith Lake and Nemeiben Lake, and the historic Robertson's Trading Post near La Ronge. Denare Beach also suffered extensive damage.Fire crews successfully defended the community of Creighton, holding back the flames. Saskatchewan remains at Agency Preparedness Level 4 out of 5, indicating extreme wildfire activity and resources allocated to fighting the fires. Residents are urged to avoid northern highways, which are closed or dedicated to evacuations..Five communities were specifically named under evacuation orders as of Thursday afternoon, which are Bear Creek Northern Settlement, Lac La Plonge Resort Subdivision, Beauval Northern Village, Kinoosao, and La Plonge Reserve. Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is distributing $500 payments to eligible evacuees 18 and older. Over $5.1 million has already reached more than 10,000 people. SPSA is also offering retroactive food support: $40 daily for the household head plus $20 per additional member, max $200/day, for eligible residents not in agency hotels. Recovery planning, including debris management and mental health support, is underway with affected communities.
