Yukon wildland fire management has placed a territory-wide ban on all open fires this weekend.
The ban comes on the heels of three lightning-sparked fires - one near Carmacks and two near Dawson - this week.
“The ban was issued due to the extreme fire danger rating across the territory,” said spokesperson George Maratos.
It’s uncommon to see a full ban so early in the season, said Maratos.
“It’s earlier than usual for a ban to be implemented, but we did have a dry spring and above average temperatures,” he said.
The ban may continue into next week if conditions remain hot and dry as they’re forecasted to, he added.
Last night a fire was reported in the north end of Marsh Lake, the cause of which is still unknown.
Nearby homes were at risk but the fire was contained with the use of an air tanker and ground forces, said Maratos.
Another two fires near Old Crow and Carmacks were reported last night bringing the total number of fires in the territory this season to 14.
Wildland fire management officials and parks officials will be enforcing the ban this weekend. People not adhering to the ban could face prosecution.