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Kashechewan evacuation on hold

All flights scheduled for Saturday and Sunday have been cancelled
Kashechewan Evacuees 3
Residents of Kashechewan First Nation are seen arriving at the Thunder Bay airport in this 2019 file photo. (TBnewswatch file photo)

THUNDER BAY — As many as 200 evacuees from Kashechewan First Nation were expected to arrive in the city over the weekend, but those plans are currently on hold.

The Kashechewan water treatment plant is currently producing water, a release from the City of Thunder Bay stated, issued on Saturday.

Kashechewan's chief and council have postponed the recent evacuation while monitoring the water treatment plant's performance over the next 48 hours, to ensure adequate water production is maintained.

“A follow-up Provincial Emergency Operations Centre (PEOC) coordination call has been scheduled for Sunday at 2 p.m. At that time, the chief and council will determine whether to cancel the evacuation or proceed.”

All flights scheduled for Saturday and Sunday have been cancelled. Flights will be rescheduled for Monday or Tuesday if it becomes necessary.

“The City of Thunder Bay remains on standby to support any evacuation efforts, should they be required.”

Updates will be provided following the PEOC coordination call on Sunday.

“The city continues to work closely with Kashechewan leadership and emergency management partners to ensure preparedness and support.”