Update 2: Calgary continues to support Northwest Territories wildfire evacuees
The City of Calgary continues to support wildfire evacuees at two reception centres that provide access to accommodations and other supports for people and pets evacuating from the Northwest Territories.
On August 17, YYC Calgary International Airport received a total of 15 evacuee flights from Northwest Territories with a total of 1,269 passengers and are expecting an additional 26 flights today with approximately 2,300 people.
“Our hearts go out to those affected by the wildfires in the Northwest Territories. We will continue supporting the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), including having our teams in their Evacuee Reception Centre at the airport, and all other partner organizations involved in the evacuation efforts,” said Chris Miles, Vice President, Operations & Infrastructure at The Calgary Airport Authority.
At current, the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) has provided 495 hotel rooms for evacuees, however this number is quickly evolving as evacuees continue to arrive at the reception centres.
In addition to the reception centres, Canada Task Force 2 has deployed 10 personnel to support the wildfire efforts in Yellowknife, at the request of the Alberta Emergency Management Agency and Government of Northwest Territories.
“Our thoughts continue to be with the people of the Northwest Territories”, said Iain Bushell, Director of Emergency Management & Community Safety at The City of Calgary. “We know this is a difficult time for people evacuating from their homes, and The City and our partner organizations are here to help.”
For those arriving by air, the reception centre is located at the Calgary International Airport (Arrivals 12). For those driving, the reception centre is located at the Calgary Westin at 671 Aero Drive NE.
Wildfire evacuees from Northwest Territories who need to evacuate, need to be prepared to evacuate, or have already evacuated, are encouraged to register with the Government of Northwest Territories on their website.
We appreciate the generosity of Calgarians who want to help by providing donations. We ask that people continue to check the Government of Northwest Territories website for recommended organizations to donate to or find a local campaign that you would like to support.
Please do not bring any donations to the reception centres in Calgary. We are not set up to take donations and get them to those who could benefit.
The City has created a webpage with more information for wildfire evacuees at calgary.ca/wildfires.
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