The City of Edmonton has responded to a request for assistance from the Alberta Emergency Management Agency to support a wildfire evacuation in the City of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories.

To assist, the City of Edmonton will begin accepting evacuees on Friday, August 18 at noon. The Reception Centre is located at the Edmonton EXPO Centre at 7515 118 Avenue NW in Hall C.  

The Centre will provide all immediate needs for evacuees including temporary lodging, food services, clothing, pet day care and health care. Evacuees can bring their pets, but are encouraged to not leave animals in vehicles due to the hot temperature expected. 

“This summer has been incredibly difficult with wildfire activity across the world. Edmonton is proud to once again welcome and provide care for wildfire evacuees, this time from Yellowknife,” said City Manager Andre Corbould. “Though a difficult situation brings you to our city, know you are safe here and have our support.”

Evacuees are encouraged to come directly to the reception centre upon arrival in Edmonton if they need support. 

Edmontonians are asked not to bring donations of any kind to the EXPO Centre. Donations and volunteers are not needed at this time.

For the duration of the response, Hall C will not be open to the media as it is personal space for evacuees. The reception entrance will be at the rear of the Hall, media are asked to gather at the ESRT trailer, ask for the Public Information Officer onsite if you need further direction.

Corporate Communications Manager

Strategic Services

587-988-5095