Hwy 1 open southbound for Liidlii Kue, Ft Simpson, evacuee services added in YK and Ft Smith

Following evacuation orders for Liidlii Kue First Nation, Fort Simpson and Wrigley the health and social services authorities have issued updated advisories as they work to adapt to the needs of evacuees. On Wednesday, Fort Simpson officials announced that Hwy 1 was open southbound after an area wildfire closed off the roadway earlier this week, prompting a shelter-in-place order.

“Highway 1 is now open to traffic but only to south bound headed vehicles. Fort Simpson and Wrigley are still under evacuation orders. If you wish to evacuate in your personal vehicle now is your chance to leave safely.”

A shelter in place order was issued Monday evening for those who remain behind in Liidlii Kue First Nation and Fort Simpson, including emergency personnel as wildfire FS016 has expanded and FS014 has impacted Hwy 1.

In Yellowknife

In Yellowknife, staff are on site at the Multiplex between 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. until July 5, 2026. Beginning July 6 the hours are scheduled to change from 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday.

They said mental helath supports will also be on-site during these dates between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. on weekends and statutory holidays including July1.

Evacuees are being asked to access primary health care services in Yellowknife. 

Evacuees can also call 867-669-4115 for medical travel questions, and 867-695-6585 for Child and Family Services. Details for additional mental health supports, eMental health resources, and crisis line information can be found at NTHSSA Mental Health Resources and Supports.

Evacuees are being asked to call 911 or present to the Emergency Department at Stanton Territorial Hospital at 548 Byrne Road for emergencies.

In Fort Smith

The health authority said evacuees can access a number of services at the Fort Smith Centennial Arena on Rupert Avenue.

Same-day counselling services in the community have been expanded to be available from 8:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on June 29, June 30, July 2, and July 3, 2026. Please call 867-872-6310 to book an appointment.
Expecting parents can contact the Midwifery Program directly at 867-872-6253.

Evacuees requiring medication refills can continue to contact the Northern Store Pharmacy at 867-695-3346. Their phone service has been transferred, and staff can assist with transferring prescriptions to the pharmacy of your choice.

For support with mobility issues, including mobility aid adjustments, call 867-872-6280.

Community drop-in events will be hosted at the Health Centre Wall Tent on July 2 and July 3 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., with light refreshments provided.

Evacuees are being asked to call or present to the Fort Smith Health Centre at 41 Breynat Street for Primary Care services. In case of emergency, they are asked to call 911 or head to the Emergency Department of the Health Centre.

Evacuees can also call 867-669-4115 for medical travel questions, and 867-621-1122 for Child and Family Services.

Lisa Iesse
Lisa Iesse
Growing up in Toronto’s west end, Lisa always dreamed of making her way to the land of the midnight sun. She studied literature and sociology at the University of Toronto and has worked with media outlets in Ontario, the N.W.T., Six Nations and the U.K. Have a tip or something to share? Reach her anytime at 647-619-9807 or liesse@vistaradio.ca

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