Fort Simpson and Wrigley Evacuation Update July 02, 2026

NWT Emergency Response Update - July 02, 2026 17:00

Status of Evacuation Notices, Alerts, and Orders

Fort Simpson - Evacuation Order

• Fort Simpson remains under Evacuation Order.

• The Evacuation Order was given by the community of Fort Simpson on June 28, 2026.

• For community updates go to the Village of Fort Simpson webpage.

Wrigley - Evacuation Order

• Wrigley remains under Evacuation Order.

• The Evacuation Order was given by the community of Wrigley on June 29, 2026.

• For community updates go to the Wrigley Community Facebook page (private Facebook group).

For the latest updates on NWT Notices, alerts and orders visit https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/notices-alerts-and-orders

NWT Wildfire Status

Follow NWT Fire for updates on wildfire:

• NWT Fire Wildfire Update
• NWT Fire Facebook page

NWT Highways, Airports and Ferries

• Highway conditions can change quickly with no warning.

• Always check DriveNWT.ca before you travel.

Services and Supports for Evacuees

Updated information on services available to evacuees can be found here: https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/public-safety/services-and-supports-evacuees.

For all evacuees who might require evacuee supports, it is important to go to the designated host community, Yellowknife for Fort Simpson Evacuees and Fort Smith for Wrigley evacuees. Going to the designated host community allows for effective continuity of service as well as having accurate numbers so that resources are allocated based on need. Thank you for you consideration and patience.

Emergency Evacuation Relief Program - All evacuees

• Evacuees of Fort Simpson and Wrigley can apply to the Emergency Evacuation Relief Program (EERP) for a one-time payment to help with the costs associated with their evacuation.

• Funding is to assist with items such as accommodation needs and everyday expenses (ie: groceries, gas, and other essentials).

• Evacuees do not have to go to the evacuation centre to apply for the EERP. Evacuated residents are encouraged to apply online at https://www.fin.gov.nt.ca/en/services/emergency-evacuation-relief-program.

• Please only submit one application per applicant. Multiple applications will slow down your response time.

United Way

• The United Way is working alongside emergency response teams to support evacuees from Fort Simpson and Wrigley.

• They have activated their Emergency Response Funding Program to get fast, flexible funding to local organizations supporting evacuees and reception centres.

• NGOs and Indigenous governments can submit a funding request to [email protected] to further support evacuees. Visit https://nwt.unitedway.ca

Income Assistance Clients

• Income Assistance recipients from Fort Simpson and Wrigley who received Income Assistance during the month of June 2026 and are affected by wildfires, will be issued the Emergency Allowance benefits.

Find information about health care, mental health support, child and family services and other GNWT programs online.

Services for Fort Simpson Evacuees in Yellowknife

• A summary of services for Fort Simpson evacuees is available online. The Yellowknife Multiplex is the reception and lodging centre for evacuees from Fort Simpson.

• Upon registration at the Multiplex, staff at the reception centre will provide you with a colored wristband. This wristband grants access to the Multiplex for access to cots, meals, and showers.

• For more information, see the City of Yellowknife website.

• All personal accommodations outside of the evacuation centres are at the expense and responsibility of the individual and are not eligible for reimbursement.

• Food - The Salvation Army will provide food to evacuated Fort Simpson residents at the Yellowknife Multiplex. Evacuees must register at the reception desk and get a wristband to access meals.

• Donations - The City of Yellowknife is encouraging monetary donations to support evacuees through the Salvation Army.

Services for Wrigley Evacuees in Fort Smith

• The Town of Fort Smith is providing a place to sleep, food and people ready to help.

• Please register at the Fort Smith Centennial Arena at 13 Rupert Ave.

• For more information, see the Town of Fort Smith website.

• All personal accommodations outside of the evacuation centres are at the expense and responsibility of the individual and are not eligible for reimbursement.

• Food - Meals are now provided through a voucher system with participating restaurants. Registered evacuees can pick up their voucher at the Pelican Rapids Inn and are able to get breakfast lunch and dinner at the following participating restaurants:

  • Aunties Korner Store

  • Anna's Home Cooking

  • Berro's Pizzeria

  • Pelican Restaurant

  • Nsixty/JavaPunks

• Donations - The Town of Fort Smith is not currently accepting donations of any kind.

• Volunteer - If you would like to volunteer, please contact the Community & Recreation Centre at +1

For updated GNWT public safety information and information on supports and services for evacuees, visit www.gov.nt.ca/public-safety.