Forest fire crews continue to battle a major blaze approximately 13 kilometers south of the northern Saskatchewan community of Southend.
The fire which was reported Monday has grown in size to about 5500 hectares.
This fire forced the evacuation of residents Tuesday as there is concern over road access.
Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Chief Peter Beatty says the flames are inching closer to the highway at a proximity of 10 kilometers.
He says there is some confusion on the urgency of the evacuation, labeling it mandatory for residents to leave.
Beatty says evacuees are safe in Saskatoon and Prince Albert. He says talks on returning home have yet to begin as the fire is not contained.
The fire is being attacked by a helicopter, air tanker and ground crews, but is difficult to access due to it being remote.
Environment Canada is forecasting a 30 percent chance of showers for Thursday night until Friday evening. Sun and hot temperatures are predicted until Monday, with possible showers Tuesday.
(PHOTO: Pauline Clarke, Facebook)