Saskatchewan Premier Makes Surprise Visit After Wildfire Devastation

UPDATE: In an unexpected move, Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe visited the wildfire-ravaged village of Denare Beach on September 26, 2025. The community, which saw nearly half of its homes destroyed by a devastating wildfire in June, expressed both surprise and a mix of gratitude and frustration over the timing of his visit.

Denare Beach, situated near the Manitoba border, was hit hard this summer, forcing nearly 10,000 residents to flee. The emotional toll of the disaster has left many residents feeling abandoned, particularly due to the provincial government’s delayed response during the crisis. Councillor Karen Thomson articulated the community’s sentiment, stating, “We’re appreciative of him taking that step and coming to see us, but we would have liked to have seen it sooner.”

During the surprise visit, Premier Moe engaged in discussions with community leaders about urgent mental health support and financial assistance necessary for rebuilding efforts. Thomson emphasized the need for immediate action, saying, “That’s kind of the elephant in the room. Here we are today, about four months post-fire.”

The wildfire, described as a “firestorm,” devastated the village of approximately 700 residents, raising questions about the adequacy of firefighting resources. Almost half of Saskatchewan’s water bomber fleet was grounded during the critical summer months, exacerbating the situation. Residents have repeatedly criticized the provincial response, questioning why fire crews appeared to take so long to combat the blaze.

Moe’s office did not publicly announce his visit prior to his arrival, and they declined to confirm details immediately afterward. During his discussions, he highlighted the importance of involving Denare Beach in the FireSmart program, which aims to enhance community preparedness against future wildfires. “Those discussions will be ongoing,” Thomson remarked, noting that while nothing was finalized, potential funding opportunities were discussed.

As the community grapples with the aftermath of the wildfire, the need for comprehensive support is urgent. Residents are looking for meaningful commitments from the provincial government to address the mental health crisis and rebuild their homes. The impact of this disaster continues to resonate deeply among the residents of Denare Beach, and many hope that this visit signals a new chapter in government support.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about the future of the community and the implementation of necessary safety measures. For residents of Denare Beach, the arrival of Premier Moe may be a step towards healing, but the path to recovery is still fraught with challenges.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.