Wildfire hazard extreme in northern Saskatchewan

The wildfire situation in Saskatchewan's north is getting worse.

Officials are recommending people not travel to the La Ronge area, including north of the community.

Provincial fire officials said Thursday that the hazard from wildfires is extreme. There are several fires burning in the area and a change in wind direction could lead to evacuation orders. Smoke is also a concern.

People in the affected communities including La Ronge and Air Ronge, Sucker River, Wadin Bay, Stanley Mission and Nemeiben were encouraged to relocate to a safer community.

Throughout Saskatchewan's north there are 31 wildfires burning.

Officials said the area has been drying out significantly since the last rainfall, leading to the potentially hazardous wildfire conditions.

The province has also issued a fire ban, meaning no open fires and no fireworks, for the northern part of the province.

• Here's a map showing the areas covered by a fire ban