Strong winds in the forecast have the capacity to turn the fire situation in La Ronge, Sask. into a natural disaster Tuesday. Winds could push the fire directly toward the town in a situation similar to July 4 when the community was evacuated.
Late Saturday into Sunday, a cold front swung through the La Ronge area, kicking up winds from a northerly direction that pushed the Egg Fire dangerously close to the town and prompted a mandatory evacuation order.
Sunday’s strong northerly winds advanced the blaze to surround the La Ronge airport, causing Mayor Thomas Sierzycki to state that there is a “serious threat” to the northern Saskatchewan town.
READ MORE: Situation very critical as crews battle northern Sask. wildfires
As of 8pm Monday, the fire was only 1.5 kilometers away from residential areas.
Tuesday brings a similar set-up to Saturday night with another cold front set to slide through and kick up winds to 20 km/h with gusts into the 40 km/h range from the northerly direction.
The strong winds will attempt to push the fire closer to the town and with such a sizeable blaze that is spewing ash and burning brush into the air, it may make the situation difficult to control.
Late Monday Sierzychi said that weather is expected to hamper fire suppression activities Tuesday.
One hopeful sign with the cold front in the forecast is that there is a chance of some brief showers during the day, which may provide some assistance amidst what is projected to be the most challenging day for firefighters yet.
READ MORE: Saskatoon firefighters deployed to help protect La Ronge from wildfires
The northerly flow is also expected to blanket much of central and southern parts of the province in thick smoke once again.
Anyone with photos of extreme weather can email them to saskatoon@globalnews.ca.
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