The Yukon Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) has issued an evacuation alert for kilometres 30 through 58 of the Robert Campbell Highway due to a wildfire.

Because of this alert, residents in the affected areas must be ready to for a full evacuation within just two hours’ notice. Most of the buildings involved are cabins used part-time.

The fire was first reported Sunday and expanded Monday.

According to a Yukon Wildland Fire Management release made available Monday, the blaze was 40 km northwest of Watson Lake, 1.5 km west of Francis River and 12 km west of the Robert Campbell Highway.

The exact size of the fire is unable to be measured because of the smoky conditions. The smoke may be visible from Watson Lake.

About 30 firefighters are battling the blaze.

EMO director Diarmuid O’Donovan has offered several tips for preparing for an evacuation.

• locate all family members and designate a safe meeting place;

• gather essential items such as medications, eyeglasses, valuable papers and immediate care needs for dependents;

• move livestock and pets to a safe area;

• arrange transportation for your household members in anticipation of a possible evacuation order;

• arrange accommodation for your family; in the event of an evacuation order, emergency accommodation may be provided, if required; and

• monitor Yukon government and local sources for updated information on the status of the fire and directions.

Local residents and visitors are encouraged to proactively relocate prior to the fire directly affecting their location.

If you choose to self-evacuate, notify Emergency Health and Social Services at 867-536-2232.

You can visit yukon.ca/emergencies for updates on the situation.

Breagha Fraser of the fire and public information office told the Star more information would be available after a briefing this morning.

No more information, however, was made available before press time this afternoon.