According to statements from the Pehdzéh Kı̨ First Nation, the fire intensified overnight and breached the lines established by firefighting crews. The Chief indicated that crews had to abandon their positions to ensure their own safety as the blaze moved closer to the community. Air support efforts—specifically fire retardant drops from air tankers—had been employed but did not prevent the fire from crossing the treated strips.
Officials emphasized that the evacuation affected those directly involved in initial containment operations, as well as residents who have already evacuated to Fort Smith. The situation remains dynamic, with authorities monitoring fire behavior and coordinating transport for those displaced.
The evacuation underscores a broader regional effort as firefighters and emergency responders work to safeguard remote communities within the territory. Local leaders have urged residents to stay away from the area until authorities declare it safe to return, and to follow updates from official channels for shelter and assistance should conditions change.
No injuries were reported in connection with the evacuation, and there was no immediate confirmation of the fire’s origin or size at the time of the latest updates. Emergency management officials said they would release additional information as it becomes available and reiterated the importance of adhering to evacuation orders and road closures to ensure public safety.