Residents in northeast Saskatchewan and the Official Opposition are urging the provincial government to declare a state of emergency as wildfires intensify. The Lac La Ronge Indian Band, Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation, and Montreal Lake Cree Nation have already declared a joint emergency, citing major shortages in firefighting resources and support.
First Nations leaders call for urgent meetings with Premier Scott Moe and federal officials, highlighting the dire need for more personnel, air support, and accommodations for evacuees. Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte emphasized the priority of protecting human life amid the escalating crisis.
Thousands have been evacuated, and the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency confirms this as one of the worst wildfire seasons in decades. As of Wednesday, nearly 20 active wildfires burned across the province, most sparked by human activity.
Chief Peter A. Beatty noted that some First Nations are cut off due to road closures and limited evacuation options. The community of Weyakwin issued an evacuation order, while East Trout Lake and Candle Lake have also taken emergency measures. The Shoe fire, now over 300,000 hectares, is Saskatchewan’s largest and classified as a Category 6 blaze.
Residents like Nathan Pitka, whose family cottage may have burned down, have written directly to Moe calling for more communication and immediate action. Pitka said the disaster is unfolding in real-time while much of the province remains unaware.
With 19 active wildfires, including nine uncontained, the SPSA has requested additional firefighting aircraft from Alaska and Quebec. Meanwhile, Manitoba has already declared a state of emergency and secured federal aid. Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck and northern MLAs are demanding similar measures, along with daily public briefings to keep affected communities informed.
Swifteradio.com
