The Yukon government is closely watching the potential travel and supply implications from a massive wildfire burning near the Alaska Highway in northern B.C.

Dubbed the Donnie Creek fire, the blaze continues to burn aggressively south of Fort Nelson, B.C. A 160-kilometre stretch of highway between that community and Fort St. John, about 380 kilometres to the south, could be affected by the fire potentially crossing the artery.

Firefighters planned deliberate ignitions on Thursday to help protect the essential road from flames.

“The Government of Yukon, through its Emergency Measures Organization (EMO), is holding daily meetings with emergency partners in British Columbia and within the Yukon to monitor the situation and prepare to respond if and when needed,” the Yukon government said today. “The Alaska Highway is open at this time.”

However, people planning to use the highway should check https://www.driveBC.ca for the latest road updates or call 1-800-550-4997 toll free anywhere in North America.

If the highway closes, updates will appear on https://www.yukon.ca/emergencies, Yukon 511, and Yukon Protective Services on Facebook and Twitter.

“Advance planning is in place to ensure the Yukon remains supplied with essentials, including fuel and food, in case of a highway closure,” the government said.

“The Yukon has multiple transport links leading outside the territory, including the Stewart-Cassiar Highway through the B.C. interior, airports, and ferry and freight access at Alaska seaports.”

The government urges all Yukoners to prepare an emergency kit containing basic supplies for every member of their household that can be easily accessed in an emergency. The kit should enable each individual to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours without power or running water.

“In the face of the unpredictable nature of wildfires, proactive monitoring and preparedness are of the upmost importance,” said Community Services Minister Richard Mostyn.

“By diligently keeping watch and staying one step ahead, the Yukon government will be prepared to co-ordinate and communicate with Yukoners during natural disasters.”

Highways and Public Works Minister Nils Clarke said the government “is actively monitoring the impact that the Donnie Creek wildfire complex may have on Yukon residents and visitors.

“Plans are in place to ensure the Yukon has access to necessary supplies, like fuel and food, in case the highway closes.”

As of Thursday, the fire was estimated to be more than 506,000 hectares in size.

There are 80 active fires in B.C., with 37 of them out of control.

The Yukon government said it’s “committed to ensuring that Yukon residents and businesses have the information they need to stay safe during natural disasters and times of crisis.”