The situation at Hay River, a town of about 4,000, is so critical that even firefighters and people performing essential functions are being ordered to leave, local authorities said. Everyone is asked to go to the local airport and await further instructions there.
Strong southwesterly winds have pushed a wall of fire closer to the city along the highway, forcing firefighters and firefighting aircraft to retreat.
“Anyone who stays in Hay River does so at their own risk. There will be no emergency services or efforts available,” reads a statement from the authorities.
Canada has been hit by its worst fire season on record. In total, an area larger than Greece has been ravaged by fire. Four lives have been claimed, and 200,000 people have been evacuated.