Saskatchewan wildfires destroy dozens of homes, cabins

At least 81 homes and cabins have been destroyed by Saskatchewan wildfires, fire officials say.

According to Steve Roberts, who heads the province's wildfire management branch, crews are getting updates on the number of structures hit by forest fires since May.

The latest number, 81, includes both principal residences and seasonal cabins, Roberts said.

That's up from last week, when about 60 burned structures had been identified.

Meanwhile, despite some rain and cooler temperatures, it's clear the war against northern Saskatchewan wildfires is not over yet.

Saskatchewan government officials said Monday that seven new fires were sparked since yesterday and the total number of active fires is 127.

While temperatures have cooled, the one to three millimetres of rain the region received over the weekend didn't do much to quell the fires.

However, there are 1,500 people on the ground fighting the blazes, supported by 59 helicopters and 20 tankers.

About 13,000 people from 50 communities have been forced out of their homes. A relatively small number of evacuees were cleared to go home today.