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Lightning strikes over the weekend have sparked 18 new wildfires in the NWT as of June 30.

Most of the new fires are within one to two hectares in size, with the largest approaching 30 hectares, according to the June 30 NWT Fire update. The largest new fire in the Beaufort Delta region is EV019-25, which sits  22 kilometres southwest of Fort McPherson.

"This fire is currently approximately 30 hectare in size and is classified as out of control," said Wildfire Information Officer Mike Westwick. "Airtankers are making drops on the fire and crews will follow-up to control the perimeter and prevent future growth towards values and the Dempster Highway. Smoke may be visible to travellers on the Dempster Highway. 

"All new fires from yesterday which were actioned have held through today thanks to aggressive air attack and great work from wildfire crews."

A new fire in the Sahtu region was quickly brought to bear by fire crews, added Westwick.

Three fires in the North slave region, ZF014, ZF015, ZF016, may be visible from the highway but currently do not present a danger, he said.

"This string of lightning-caused fires are visible to the east and west between KM160 and KM185 on Highway 3," said Westwick. "They are currently being assessed for their threat to highway access. There are no threats to cabins or communities as a result of these wildfires. However, smoke may be visible from Highway 3. While conditions remain positive for now, check Drive NWT for the latest on road conditions before you travel."

Two fires in the South Slave region, FS014, which sits 23 km southeast of Fort Simpson and24 km northwest of Jean-Marie River,  and FS007, which is northeast of Wrigley, have been beaten back significantly with the help of increased rainfall and fire crew efforts.

One significantly larger fire, the Liard Complex which consists of several fires — FS002, FS006, FS009 — now merged into one in the Deh Cho region is now 2596.50 hectares in size. 

"Aggressive air attack continues on fire FS009 to reduce its southern and wester growth and reduce fire intensity to allow crews to get work done," said Westwick. "Sprinkler protection continues across all fires in the complex. While many parts of the Dehcho have received rain, these fires have received very little. 

"Hot, dry conditions continue in the area with west to southwesterly winds today – which could push fire to the east and north. There are no immediate threats to the communities of Fort Liard or Sambaa K’e."