NWT Emergency Response Update – July 17, 2026

NWT Emergency Response Update - July 17, 2026 @ 19:00

New Bulletins will be released on an as-needed basis, when new information becomes available.

Status of Evacuation Notices, Alerts, and Orders

Fort Simpson - Evacuation Order is being downgraded July 18, 2026 @ 08:00

• Evacuation Order is being downgraded July 18, 2026 @ 08:00

• Following the downgrade of the Evacuation Order to an Evacuation Alert, Fort Simpson evacuees will be able to return home. Transportation has been arranged for those who require assistance returning from Yellowknife. This will be the only transportation opportunity provided by the Village of Fort Simpson.

• Upon return, residents should stay aware of current conditions and remain prepared in the event that wildfire activity in the area changes.

• For community updates, go to the Village of Fort Simpson webpage.

The Village of Fort Simpson has published their re-entry plan with the latest information and transportation arrangements. Please review this information as soon as possible and plan accordingly:

RETURNING HOME SAFELY AFTER A WILDFIRE

Wrigley - Evacuation Order

• The Evacuation Order for Wrigley remains in place. It is not yet safe to return to Wrigley.

• The Evacuation Order was given by the community of Wrigley on June 29, 2026.

• For community updates, go to the Wrigley Community Facebook page (private Facebook group).

For the latest updates on NWT Notices, alerts and orders visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/notices-alerts-and-orders

NWT Wildfire Status

Follow NWT Fire for updates on wildfire:

• NWT Fire Wildfire Update
• NWT Fire Facebook page

NWT Highways, Airports and Ferries

• Highway conditions can change quickly with no warning.
• Always check DriveNWT.ca before you travel.

Services and Supports for Evacuees
Updated information on services available to evacuees can be found here: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/services-and-supports-evacuees.

All personal accommodations outside of the evacuation centres are at the expense and responsibility of the individual and are not eligible for reimbursement. The Yellowknife Evacuation Centre will close shortly after the flights to Fort Simpson have concluded.

Return Flight Registration and Travel Information for Fort Simpson Evacuees

• These flights are intended for Fort Simpson evacuees currently in Yellowknife who require transportation to return home.

• Registration for return flights will take place in person at the Yellowknife Multiplex on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

• Shuttle service from the Multiplex to the airport will be available, with the final bus departing at 12:45 p.m.

• Each passenger is permitted:

  • One checked bag (maximum 50 lbs)

  • One personal item

• Evacuees who are currently being supported at the Quality Inn may register in the hotel lobby on Saturday, July 18, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Transportation and assistance will be provided from the hotel to the airport and during boarding.

• Only designated service animals will be permitted on the flights and must be accompanied by appropriate supporting documentation.

• Return flights are scheduled to depart on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at:

  • 12:00 p.m.

  • 2:45 p.m.

• If you are not using the shuttle service from the Multiplex, you must arrive at the airport in time for your assigned check-in. Check-in times will be provided during registration.

• Passengers who do not register in advance will not be permitted to board the aircraft.

• Individuals who have not been using evacuation supports but still require a flight home may register by calling 867-445-4047.

Arrival in Fort Simpson

• Upon arrival in Fort Simpson, bus transportation will be available to bring passengers to the Fort Simpson Recreation Centre, as required.

Important Notice

This is the only transportation being provided by the Village of Fort Simpson. If you miss your scheduled flight or choose not to register for one of the provided flights, you will be responsible for making your own travel arrangements at your own expense.

• Although the immediate threat to Fort Simpson will have been reduced, wildfire activity may continue in the surrounding area. Residents should expect:

  • Smoke to remain present for an extended period.

  • Firefighters and heavy equipment operating throughout the region.

  • Possible travel delays.

  • Continued wildfire suppression activities.

  • The possibility that evacuation measures could be reinstated if conditions deteriorate.

• Residents may return using their own transportation once the Evacuation Order has been lifted.

• Those returning early should be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours, including bringing:

  • Prescription medications

  • Food

  • Drinking water

  • Personal hygiene supplies

  • Infant and pet supplies

  • Medical equipment requiring power backups, if applicable

• Residents should also expect that some municipal and commercial services may not immediately return to normal operations.

• Motorists should drive cautiously, obey all traffic control measures, and watch for emergency vehicles and firefighting equipment. Always check DriveNWT.ca before you travel.

Emergency Evacuation Relief Program - All evacuees

• Find information about the Emergency Evacuation Relief Program (EERP), the Emergency Allowance benefits health care, mental health support, child and family services and other GNWT programs online.

United Way

• The United Way is working alongside emergency response teams to support evacuees from Fort Simpson and Wrigley.

• They have activated their Emergency Response Funding Program to get fast, flexible funding to local organizations supporting evacuees and reception centres.

• NGOs and Indigenous governments can submit a funding request to [email protected] to further support evacuees. Visit https://nwt.unitedway.ca

• The United way has arranged for Gas Cards to be available for registered evacuees from Fort Simpson who are driving home. More information will be made available at the Evacuation Centre.

Find information about health care, mental health support, child and family services and other GNWT programs online.

Services for Wrigley Evacuees in Fort Smith

• A summary of services for Wrigley evacuees is available online. When you arrive in Fort Smith register at the Fort Smith Centennial Arena. There will be a place to sleep, food and people ready to help for as long as you need to be here.

For updated GNWT public safety information and information on supports and services for evacuees, visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/public-safety