It has been a rough two weeks for residents in northern Saskatchewan, but for the first time since July 4th some got to sleep in their own beds last night.
The mandatory evacuation for the communities of La Ronge, Air Ronge and the Lac La Ronge Indian Band was lifted after officials determined the wildfire threat had lessened.
Health officials say everyone on the health priority list from LLRIB (La Ronge), Town of La Ronge, Village of Air Ronge, Sucker River, Grandmother’s Bay and Stanley Mission will be able to return home on Monday.
Transportation for tomorrow is being coordinated for everyone who needs a ride home.
Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook-Searson says buses were arriving at the JR hall throughout the evening, bringing people back home.
Air Ronge Mayor Gordon Stomp says most people have returned home and businesses will be back up and running as soon as possible.
La Ronge Mayor Thomas Sierzycki says the town will continue working with the provincial and federal governments to ensure people and businesses who were financially affected receive any support that may be available.
Sierzycki says the Town of La Ronge will also be crediting July’s utility bills to help families who were displaced during the evacuation.
A community barbecue with fireworks is being planned to say thank you to the many people who helped save the communities and to welcome residents back home.