Lac La Ronge Indian Band declares forest fire emergency
Lightning strikes started 25 fires Saturday and 100 people were moved to Prince Albert as a precaution
The Lac La Ronge Indian Band has declared a local emergency and begun some evacuations after lightning strikes sparked around 25 forest fires in the area Saturday.
About 100 people considered health priorities from the Sikichew Lake and Clam Lake Bridge communities are now being moved to Prince Albert, Sask., as a precaution.
Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook Searson has been posting updates and photos on her Facebook page. She says heavy smoke in Hall Lake has led to plan evacuations for people there with chronic illnesses.
A Government of Saskatchewan spokesperson confirmed that lightning strikes caused around 25 forest fires in the area on Saturday.
In addition, the spokesperson said that the Ministry of Environment has fire crews on the scene to assess the situation and provide immediate support when needed.
Staff from the ministries of Social Services and Government Relations are helping the band co-ordinate evacuation efforts.