'We're literally in the flames': Community battles Sask. largest wildfire, under evacuation order

Residents of La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation are under a mandatory evacuation order, as a large wildfire nears the communities. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) told reporters on Thursday, it’s the largest fire of concern in the province.

Residents of La Loche and Clearwater River Dene Nation are under a mandatory evacuation order, as a large wildfire nears the communities. The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) told reporters on Thursday, it’s the largest fire of concern in the province.

The SPSA said there has been 73 wildfires in the province this year, which is above the five year average of 39. La Loche residents will be bussed approximately eight and a half hours to Regina. SPSA vice president Steve Roberts said it’s prepared to handle up to 3,000 evacuees.

"The largest capacity we have in the province for that number is Regina, so plans are to move all the groups to Regina to keep continuity between families and groups," Roberts said.

Residents of Clearwater River Dene Nation will be temporarily housed in hotels in Lloydminster, about 543 kilometres south of the community.

"If the city of Lloydminster can't handle hotels, we will grow into North Battleford," Andrew DeGruchy with the city of Lloydminster told reporters on Thursday.

"Between us and North Battleford we could do 1,000 pretty easy."

Clearwater River Dene Nation councillor Roy Cheecham worries for the community members traveling the long distance to unfamiliar areas.