Fire outside Dawson City grows overnight

A fire burning near the Klondike Highway, near Dawson City, Yukon, is now estimated to be 48 hectares in size.

The fire was estimated at 5 hectares on May 14.

Yukon Wildland Fire Management believes people are responsible for causing the fire, rather than natural causes.

Duty OfficerLorneHarris says firefighters are working nearthe Klondike Highway, about 500 metres from the Dempster Corner.

Firefighters working on the ground are being supported by helicopters.

"Good progress was made on the fire last night but it is hot and dry in the area and thereforethe fire remains active," Harris says, in Wildland Fire Management's daily update.

"Crews were on site early thismorning and will continue working to contain the fire throughout the day and into the evening."

The North Klondike Highway remains open, but Yukon Wildland Fire Management says anyonedriving the highwayshouldexpect delays due to smoke in the area.

Travelers can visit www.yukon511.ca for updates onroad conditions.

Fire danger 'extreme' this weekend

The fire is Yukon's first of the season, and comes as thecamping season begins at Yukon's territorial campgrounds.

As of May 15 the fire danger rating is "extreme" in much of the territory.

Locations includeHaines Junction,Watson Lake, Whitehorse, Carmacks and Mayo. This rating means that allburningpermits are suspended.

Two airtanker groups contracted by YukonWildland Fire Management are scheduled to arrive in Yukon this weekend.

According toWildland Fire Management, they will be conducting practiceflights nearWhitehorse and respond to wildfires as required.

The number to report wildfires in Yukon is 1-888-798-FIRE (3473).