Over 2 dozen Saskatchewan communities evacuated as northern wildfires rage [Video]

Thousands of people have been affected by wildfires in Saskatchewan, ignited by hot, dry weather that has allowed flames to grow and threaten dozens of communities.

In an update Monday afternoon, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) said 16 fires were actively burning and the province has had 219 fires to date in 2025 — a significant jump from the five-year average of 131 wildfires.

Of the 16 wildfires, five have been contained and six are still out of control.

The fires have resulted in several road closures and Steve Roberts, the vice-president of operations for the SPSA, stressed those who do not absolutely need to be in wildfire-affected areas need to stay away.

He said the fire situation is dynamic and changing even hour by hour, explaining some roads that were open Monday morning were closed by by early afternoon.

“Non-essential travel on any of these roads is not advised, so seriously consider if you do wish …