‘We’re keeping a couple bags packed’: Weyakwin, Sask., residents start returning after evac order lifted

Lisa Powder and her great grandchildren were among the first residents of Weyakwin to return home after a devastating wildfire threatened their community. As they walked through the neighbourhood, Powder expressed her sadness at the damage caused by the fire and the lingering threat of smoke in the air.

The evacuation order for Weyakwin, a small hamlet in northern Saskatchewan, was lifted after a week, allowing residents to come back to their homes. Despite the relief of being able to return, Powder and her family remain vigilant, keeping their bags packed in case they need to evacuate again.

Powder expressed her gratitude for the firefighters and emergency crews who worked tirelessly to protect the community. While some losses, like a favorite walking trail and berry patch, are irreplaceable, Powder remains hopeful that the community will rebuild and regrow.

Jordan LaValle, a certified emergency firefighter and Weyakwin native, led a crew in fighting the nearby Ditch fire that threatened the town. His crew, along with dozens of other firefighters and volunteers, worked tirelessly to contain the blaze and prevent further damage.

Kalan Natonagan, a member of LaValle’s crew, expressed his pride in being able to fight for his own community. Despite the destruction caused by the fire, Natonagan remains hopeful for the future of Weyakwin.

The fire scorched much of the surrounding forest, leaving charred trees and brush along Highway 2. LaValle noted the absence of wildlife in the area, emphasizing the extent of the devastation caused by the wildfire.

As Weyakwin residents return home and begin the process of rebuilding, Powder urged patience and faith for those still waiting to hear about their homes. With several wildfires still burning in Saskatchewan, the community remains on edge, hoping for the safety of all those affected.

Powder and her family are grateful to be back home, despite the challenges they face in cleaning up ash and smoke damage. As they settle back into their lives, they remain hopeful for the future and send their prayers to all those affected by the wildfires in Saskatchewan.