New fire being fought 138km north of Watson Lake, Yukon

Nine new fires were caused by lightning on Monday, according to Yukon Wildland Fire Management, the most notable being a 50-hectare blaze in the Watson Lake district near Frances Lake.

Earlier this week fire authorities noted that 'light ash' was falling on the community but did not consider the community or properties to be at risk. 

The new fire 138 kilometres north of Watson Lake is being attacked from the air using water and flame retardant as there are several properties at risk in the area. 

Yukon Wildland Fire Management says people should expect to see smoke over many locations across the territory as more than 50 fires are currently burning. 

While this year's wildfire season is more intense than usual the fires have not caused any reported cases of injury or damage to property.

Casino Mine site sprinklered

One area of concern is the Casino Mine camp site near Carmacks. Firefighters are helping to protect that camp today.

Sprinklers have also been installed at mining camps sites in the Beaver Creek and Dawson fire districts.

Officials are also continuing to monitor a large fire burning about 30 kilometres east of Lake Laberge, south of the confluence of the Teslin River and Open Creek.

The fire has reached an approximate size of 4,127 hectares and is burning in a wilderness zone.