Yukon-wide travel advisory issued to ensure responder and public safety

Press Release

The Yukon is currently experiencing many emergencies. Wildfires and flooding have triggered evacuation alerts in several Yukon communities and campgrounds, and have led to numerous road closures and washouts. The territory has been further challenged by widespread telecommunications interruptions and poor air quality.

Yukoners and visitors to the territory are being asked to seriously consider their travel plans. This is for their own safety, and for the safety of emergency responders, residents in impacted areas, and the movement of essential supplies and equipment.

The Government of Yukon provides the most up-to-date information available at the links below, but the situation on the ground or waterways could differ from what’s available online.

Do your research

If you choose to travel, you will need to do extensive research to understand local conditions. Always get your information from trusted sources.

• For current wildfire information, go to Yukon.ca/get-wildfire-updates or call our information line at 867-393-7415.
• For active advisories and alerts, including evacuation alerts, flood warnings and air quality advisories, go to Yukon.ca/emergencies.
• Always check Yukon511.ca before travelling by road.
• Find the status of Yukon campgrounds and recreation sites at Yukon.ca/en/find-status-yukon-campgrounds-and-recreation-sites

Be prepared

Emergency responders and community residents are working long hours to keep the Yukon safe. If you must travel, here’s how you can help:

• Expect extended delays and long waits on roadways. Always have a grab-and-go bag, including extra food and water, in your vehicle.
• Do not interfere with emergency response operations and follow all instructions from officials.
• Respect any closures or advisories communities have in place. Do not travel unless you absolutely have to, especially to areas under evacuation alerts.
• Be as self-sufficient as possible. Supplies and resources are limited in communities. Bring everything you need, such as groceries, extra gas, and chargers, for the duration of your travel.
• Understand that the situation could change quickly. Be prepared to change your plans if required.

Air quality

There are active air quality advisories in multiple Yukon communities. Whether you are in a community or travelling on the land, you need to understand how poor air quality due to wildfire smoke can affect your health.

Some of the small particles in wildfire smoke can travel deep into the lungs and cause irritation and inflammation. Your health status and the concentration of wildfire smoke can increase your risk of negative health outcomes from smoke.

When there is heavy smoke, all people are at risk regardless of their age or health status. Learn more about wildfire smoke and your health at Yukon.ca/wildfire-smoke.

Contact
Kat Hallett
Communications, Community Services
867-332-4188
Kathryn.hallett@yukon.ca

IHT4