Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation has now issued a state of emergency for Pelican Narrows.

 

In a statement posted this  morning, the Cree Nation says the threat of the fire near the community is escalating.

 

Leaders say the fire is burning “dangerously close” to the community.

A mandatory evacuation for the entire community has been issued and all residents are asked to evacuate immediately.

 

A registration centre is being set up at the Pelican Narrows high school.

 

Gas is available for those who are self-evacuating at Charles Store and buses will begin transporting people out of the community early this  afternoon.

 

Residents are also reminded not to use Highway 135 to Sandy Bay as the highway is closed due to wildfire.