Ongoing probes into anthropogenic blazes in Saskatchewan as fire expansion remains negligible
Sun's out, fire-fighting's about! Reduced winds and rainfall finally give firefighters a break to tackle those pesky wildfires in northern Saskatchewan. Marlo Pritchard, President of the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), analyzed the fire situation and confirmed, "The fire activity has remained stable for a couple of days now."
As a result, evacuees are making their way back home, with Birch Portage residents returning June 9 and Little Bear Lake, Moosehorn, and Timber Bay evacuees returning on June 12. Residents from several regions, including Hall Lake, Brabant Lake, Nemeiben Lake, Sucker River, Wadin Bay, English Bay, Sikachu, Clam Crossing, Lac la Ronge Indian Band, La Ronge, Air Ronge, Napatak, Eagle Point, Lamp Lake, Rabbit Creek, Potato Lake, and priority one and two individuals in Stanley Mission, are expected to return home within the next few days [5].
Still, around 10,000 people remain evacuated across the province. In response to those affected, Premier Scott Moe announced additional support: a $500 payment for everyone aged 18 and older who had to leave their homes due to the wildfires.
As far as the causes go, there have been 80 fires this year that were started by humans - with roughly 30 of them intentionally set [5]. Although the RCMP confirmed two individuals have been charged with arson in separate incidents that occurred near Prince Albert on May 30 and June 3, these incidents do not appear connected to the large uncontrolled blazes threatening communities around the province.
While SPSA officials and Premier Moe insist the Ditch02 fire near Weyakwin was intentionally set, the Saskatchewan RCMP could not confirm this, nor have they laid charges in relation to this specific blaze [5].
At 11:00 hours on June 12, 23 wildfires were active in Saskatchewan, with six of them remaining uncontained and two requiring fire crews to protect values and properties. Keep an eye on our News app for breaking news alerts!
-With files from Drew Postey.
[5] Source: Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA)
Fun fact: Saskatchewan has seen nearly twice the number of wildfires compared to its five-year average for this time of year, with approximately 44 fires due to lightning and the majority caused by human activities. If you have any information regarding intentionally set fires, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency encourages you to report it through Crimestoppers or their direct line. Let's help keep Saskatchewan safe! 🔥🚒
- Amidst the ongoing wildfires in northern Saskatchewan, health officials are urging residents returning home to prioritize their personal health by wearing masks, staying hydrated, and avoiding areas with poor air quality.
- With the current climate change and increased frequency of wildfires, environmental scientists are studying the impact of these fires on Saskatchewan's ecosystem, particularly its forests and wildlife.
- Political discussions are ongoing about the allocation of funds to combat wildfires more effectively, as well as the provision of support services for affected communities.
- As recent wildfires in Saskatchewan have been largely human-caused, the question of environmental responsibility has risen in general news discourse, with many calling for stricter regulations and educational programs concerning fire safety and climate change.
