The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) provided the latest wildfire update in the province.
There are 19 active wildfires in the province, with four categorized as contained, four are not contained, eight are ongoing assessment, and three are listed as protecting values.
So far this year, there have been 265 wildfires in Saskatchewan, well above the five-year average of 158.
Five communities remain under evacuation order: Creighton, Denare Beach, East Trout Lake, Whelan Bay and priority individuals in Cumberland House.
There are approximately 2,000 evacuees remaining, 300 of which are supported by the SPSA in hotels or staying with friends and family.
A recovery task force has been established by the SPSA representatives from the Ministries of Health, Social Services, Government Relations and others as needed to assist communities that were devastated by the recent wildfires.
Over $3.8 million has been transferred to communities that are distributing the $500 Government of Saskatchewan payments directly to their residents. The SPSA is continuing to coordinate with communities that have asked for its support in distributing payments. Over $160,000 will be delivered by the SPSA to residents of Denare Beach in the coming days.
Evacuees who have not yet registered are encouraged to do so through the Sask Evac Web Application or by calling 1-855-559-5502 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. for assistance.
Evacuees supported by the Canadian Red Cross can call 1-800-863-6582 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. A full list of evacuated and repatriated communities can be found on the Information for Evacuees webpage.
More information including an interactive fire ban map, frequently asked questions, fire risk maps and fire prevention tips can be found at saskpublicsafety.ca.