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Department of Community Services
2003 - Yukon Wildfire Bulletins
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Current Fire Danger Ratings Wildfire Bulletin #9 June 05, 2003 - 9:30 AM SUSPICIOUS FIRES PUSH HUMAN CAUSED TOTAL TO TWENTY WHITEHORSE - For the second time in a week, Yukon Wildland Fire Management personnel responded to forest fires of suspicious nature yesterday afternoon. The two fires, reported by a YTG helicopter on Wednesday afternoon, are located near Takhini Lake in a remote wilderness area approximately three kilometres east of Kusawa Lake. Yukon Duty Officer Al Beaver said the smaller fire is estimated to be between five and 10 hectares in size, while the larger is currently around 120 hectares, making it the largest fire this season. A couple of cabins are located along the shore of Takhini Lake, but Beaver said they were not under any immediate threat at the moment. Protective strategies have been developed for the cabins. "Both these fires were human caused and are of suspicious nature. The RCMP has been notified and is investigating the fires," said Beaver. "Both fires are pretty much confined within a wilderness area, and no values are at risk at this time." Beaver added that Whitehorse and Carcross residents are likely going to see smoke today, depending on the weather. Fire Management personnel have developed a confinement strategy, and will continue to monitor the fires. In addition, two initial attack crews are expected to begin mop-up today on the Wheaton River fires. The total of 21 fires in the territory this season have burned approximately 283 hectares. All but one of the fires have been caused by people. On average, 50 per cent of forest fires in the Yukon are caused by people. The forest fire danger rating has reduced to low to moderate in most areas of the Yukon. However, the public is asked to use caution when doing any kind of burning. With the recent fluctuating weather patterns throughout the territory the danger rating has had the tendency to change daily. With the winds in the forecast today, the danger rating is likely to rise in most areas. Please report any wildfire activity to the toll-free wildfire reporting line at 1-888-798-FIRE (3473). -30- For Yukon Wildfire updates, call 1-800-826-4750 Current Fire Danger Ratings |