An out-of-control wildfire within two kilometres of Fort Providence prompted a full evacuation order, with residents directed to Hay River as winds threaten to push flames toward the community.

Dense wildfire smoke has prompted air quality advisories across several Northwest Territories communities, leading to health warnings and the opening of clean-air shelters in Yellowknife and Fort Providence.

The Tulip Lake wildfire in Northwest Territories has grown to over 13,000 hectares under gusting winds, prompting installation of high-volume sprinkler systems in Fort Fitzgerald and Fort Smith as crews work to secure containment lines.

N.W.T. fire officials are warning of a "major wind event" expected in some areas of the territory on Friday, along with warm, dry conditions — significantly raising the risk of wildfire.

A duck hunter in Fort Smith, N.W.T., found his usual hunting grounds dried up and devoid of wildlife due to recent wildfires and record-low water levels.