Wildfire near Waterhen Lake prompts evacuations

A wildfire forced 30 people to evacuate the Waterhen Lake First Nation on Monday.

As of Tuesday morning, the 1,400-hectare blaze located on the west side of Waterhen Lake was not contained.  Helicopters and water tankers have been deployed to keep the fire at bay, according to wildfire management officials.

The evacuees are people with health concerns and new mothers, who were taken to Meadow Lake where they are being supported by the Red Cross.

It was not immediately clear if any infrastructure was at risk.

Band councillor, Dustin Ross Fiddler, said they are actively working with all parties to ensure the safety of the community.

Waterhen Lake is about 70 kilometres north of Meadow Lake.