Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
PETER BALLANTYNE CREE NATION — Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation (PBCN) says there is currently no evacuation order for Sandy Bay as officials continue to monitor a nearby wildfire and prepare for any changes in conditions.
In a social media update posted June 26, PBCN said its emergency operations centre (EOC) met with emergency management partners to review the wildfire situation affecting the community.
Sandy Bay is located about 190 kilometres northeast of Prince Albert on the eastern shore of Amisk Lake, near the Saskatchewan-Manitoba border. Wildfire activity continues in the surrounding area, with SPSA closely monitoring conditions.
PBCN said air quality monitoring is underway, with efforts focused on reconnecting the PurpleAir monitor at the Sandy Bay Health Centre to provide real-time smoke readings. Health officials will use that information, along with weather conditions and smoke forecasts, to guide any future public health recommendations.
The nation said transportation providers, the Canadian Red Cross and emergency response partners remain on standby should conditions worsen and an evacuation become necessary.
The EOC continues to work with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA), the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA), emergency management officials and local partners to ensure the community is prepared if wildfire conditions deteriorate.
The provincial wildfire situation remains active. In its June 26 evening update, the SPSA reported approximately 12 new lightning-caused wildfire starts after widespread thunderstorms over the past several days. More than 15,000 lightning strikes were recorded across Saskatchewan during the previous 24 hours.
As of 5 p.m. Thursday, there were 47 active wildfires burning across the province, including 39 fires measuring less than 50 hectares. The SPSA also said nine of the active wildfires were first reported by members of the public and is reminding anyone who spots a wildfire to call 911 immediately.
Smoky conditions continue to affect some Saskatchewan communities and could persist through the weekend. The SPSA encourages residents to monitor local smoke forecasts and air quality conditions when planning outdoor activities.
PBCN is encouraging members to monitor its official communication channels for the latest information.
Further updates will be shared as new information becomes available, the Nation said.
