Behchokǫ̀, Northwest Territories, is under a Yellow heat warning as temperatures climb to 10 degrees above normal this week, with highs reaching 32°C and overnight lows staying around 14°C. Environment Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories issued the warning Monday morning for the North Slave Region, including Whati and Wekweeti, and expect the heat to stick around for at least five days.
The normal daytime high for this time of year is 21°C, and overnight lows usually sit near 11°C. A big ridge of high pressure parked over the territory is pushing unseasonably warm air into the region. “The heat will continue until at least through the weekend,” Environment Canada meteorologist Julien Corriveau told CBC News earlier in the week. “It doesn’t look like it really lets up until maybe next week.”
Environment Canada’s warning urges people to drink water often, before they feel thirsty, and to find a cool spot if their home gets too hot. “If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park,” the alert reads. Residents are also asked to check on neighbours, older adults, young children, and others who may feel the heat more strongly.
Along with the heat, local smoke from wildfires is drifting through the area. Environment Canada forecasts at least one night of smoky conditions. When heat and smoke mix, officials say cooling down is the top priority. Open a window if smoke is light and you need cooler air, but close windows and doors if the smoke gets thick. Anyone feeling dizzy, nauseous, or unusually tired should seek help immediately — those can be signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
The warning comes as the territory battles active wildfires. Fort Simpson was ordered to evacuate on June 28 because of a fire burning about seven kilometres from the community. Behchokǫ̀ has stepped up during past wildfire emergencies, serving as a reception centre for evacuees from Whati in 2025.
