Emergency Update
HALL LAKE, LLRIB. — Here are the latest updates on the ongoing wildfire emergency and related evacuation efforts, regarding the wildfire response and evacuation planning for Hall Lake and surrounding areas. Representatives from LLRIB, PAGC, SPSA, RCMP, the Red Cross, SFNEM, NITHA, and other health and emergency service partners participated.
Key Updates from the May 27 Meeting:
Wildfire Status and Response Efforts· The wildfire affecting Hall Lake is currently estimated at approximately 45,000 hectares.
· Active suppression efforts include mapping operations, controlled burnout operations, and the establishment of sprinkler lines and barriers around the community.
· Resources deployed include multiple water trucks, dozers, aircraft, and personnel, with additional resources on order.
Evacuation Update & Contingency Planning· A total of 384 community members have been safely evacuated and accommodated primarily in Saskatoon and Regina.
· Evacuees initially placed at the University of Regina residence are being relocated to hotels, with moves expected to be completed by this afternoon.
· Coordination continues to account for all evacuees, including those staying privately with family in Prince Albert.
Air Quality Advisory· Current smoke conditions in the area are moderate but expected to fluctuate. Individuals sensitive to smoke, or those with cardiac or respiratory conditions, are advised to remain indoors, reduce physical activity, and utilize air purifiers or fresh air shelters as needed.
Travel and Road Conditions· Highway 165 remains open but expect intermittent closures.
· The 910 access road to Besnard is closed, and the Sandy Bay and Brabant roads have variable statuses.
· Avoid travel on routes with heavy smoke, especially the shortcut from La Ronge to the Creighton-Flinflon Highway due to severely reduced visibility.
Important Notice for Land Users· Land users traveling on highways 165 East and West should proceed with extreme caution due to heavy smoke conditions.
· Several land users from Bow River area have reported returning home because of intense smoke.
· Please avoid these areas when possible, as conditions may worsen unexpectedly.
Emergency Response and Resource Updates· Forestry crews are continuing Type 3 firefighting training in La Ronge.
· Additional value protection equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are being deployed to Hall Lake.
· Emergency teams are closely monitoring fire behavior and weather conditions, preparing for potential risks from dry and windy conditions.
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 – 306-420-9063Thank you for your ongoing cooperation, patience, and resilience. Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
Stay safe and look after each other,
— Chief Tammy Cook-Searson
Lac La Ronge Indian Band Emergency Operations Centre
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