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Rain helpful but not enough to suppress Sask. wildfires

Members of the Canadian Forces look hotspots from wildfires near Montreal Lake, Sask., Thursday, July 9, 2015. Rain in some areas will help with suppression, but not enough to change the size or scope of the wildfires.
Members of the Canadian Forces look hotspots from wildfires near Montreal Lake, Sask., Thursday, July 9, 2015. Rain in some areas will help with suppression, but not enough to change the size or scope of the wildfires. Jeff McIntosh / The Canadian Press

Officials say there has been some rain but not enough to change the size or scope of the wildfires. As of Tuesday morning, 125 wildfires were burning in the province.

More than 10 millimetres was reported in some northwest communities, which officials say will help with fire suppression efforts.

Five more structures have burned, bringing the total to 86 so far this year.

Watch below: Canadian Forces reservists help wildfire containment efforts near La Ronge

No communities are facing an increased threat compared to yesterday, but officials would not comment on whether any evacuees will be sent home soon.

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Thousands of fire evacuees are anxious to return home, but officials are urging them to be patient and ignore rumours. They say word on social media that an evacuation order will soon be lifted for Montreal Lake is incorrect.

About 13,000 people remain out of their homes in 50 communities north due to a higher than average number fires and hazardous smoke.

Social services is providing aid to more than 10,000 displaced residents.

More than 1,500 firefighters are in the region, including 850 military.

READ MORE: Soldier reported missing amid Saskatchewan wildfires found safe

One soldier helping to fight the wildfires went missing on Monday afternoon. He was located safe six hours later.

He had gone into the woods for some privacy and got turned around after heeding Mother Nature’s call.

Watch below: Canadian Forces reservists contribute engineering, medical, and fire suppression aid to battle Saskatchewan wildfires

 

Evacuees from one reserve were allowed home on the weekend.

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With files from Global’s Joel Senick and The Canadian Press

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