HALL LAKE, Sikachu Lake and Clam Bridge LLRIB. — Here are the latest updates on the ongoing wildfire emergency, community support, and evacuation coordination:
Key Updates from the Saturday, May 31 Meeting:
Pisew Wildfire Update and Fire Behavior· The Pisew wildfire has grown to approximately 65,000 hectares and remains active near Hall Lake, Sanderson Lake, Sikachu Lake & Clam Bridge
· Fire conditions remain dangerous due to high temperatures (32°C), low humidity (15%), and increased wind activity.
· Aircraft and crews from other provinces have arrived to assist, and more resources are being deployed.
Highway Status and Infrastructure· Highway 102 was opened this morning to allow traffic, but will close again at noon due to wind shifts and fire risk.
· Highway 165 is open but may be closed intermittently. Power outages have been reported in some areas due to downed trees on power lines.
Firefighting and Community Protection· Crews are continuing work to protect Hall Lake and Brabant.
· A joint emergency declaration by LLRIB, PBCN, and Montreal Lake Cree Nation has brought national attention to our situation.
· Planned burnout operations are underway to slow the fire’s progression.
Evacuation and Community Safety· Sikachu Lake and Clam Bridge community members were relocated to Hall Lake as a precaution, overnight.
· Sikachu and Clam Bridge residents are advised to be on standby and prepare in case evacuation becomes necessary.
Smoke Conditions and Health Advice· Air quality is poor:
o Hall Lake & La Ronge: PM2.5 = 180
o Sucker River, Grandmothers Bay, Stanley Mission: PM2.5 = 184
· Conditions may improve briefly, but high smoke levels are expected to return May 31.
· Health tips and air quality guidance will be shared online.
Firefighter Support & Resources· BC teams have joined efforts. Equipment trailers from the Grand Council and La Ronge have arrived.
· Clinic and school showers are open to out-of-town crews. Additional rest areas, like Beaver Place, are being considered.
· A social media call has gone out for Indigenous firefighter recruitment and equipment support.
Postponed Events· Treaty Day in Hall Lake has been postponed due to the fire situation. Events in other communities are proceeding as planned.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:
Leon J. Charles, Emergency Response Coordinator – 306-420-9499 Yvonne Roberts – 306-420-8936 Joe Ratt – 306-207-4446 Leonard Halkett – 306-420-4484 Leonard Halkett Jr. – 306-420-0674 Councillor Norman Ross – 306-420-9063We continue to monitor the situation and work closely with emergency partners to protect our communities. Thank you for your patience, resilience, and cooperation.
Stay safe and take care,
— Chief Tammy Cook-Searson
Lac La Ronge Indian Band Emergency Operations Centre
