Improved weather helps crews fight wildfires in Manitoba’s north, east
As wildfires continue to rage in Manitoba, firefighters are finally seeing some relief with improving weather conditions. Cooler temperatures and increased humidity have allowed crews to make progress in battling the blazes, although officials caution that the fight is far from over.
According to Kristin Hayward, assistant deputy minister for the Conservation Officer Service and Manitoba Wildfire Service, the current weather forecast includes precipitation in northern and eastern Manitoba, where active wildfires are burning. While this is a positive development, the amount of rain is unpredictable and may not be sufficient to extinguish the fires completely.
As of Thursday, there are 27 active wildfires and a total of 111 fires in Manitoba. The province remains under a state of emergency, with thousands of residents displaced from their homes and seeking refuge in shelters. To support firefighting efforts, Manitoba has deployed 650 personnel, including over 175 firefighters from other provinces and the United States.
One of the most significant wildfires is near the town of Lynn Lake, covering over 72,000 hectares. The Office of the Fire Commissioner is working with local fire departments to protect properties and secure areas around the community. In Pimicikamak Cree Nation, crews are making progress in containing a 3,000-hectare wildfire, with additional support on the way.
The largest wildfire in Manitoba, near Flin Flon and Sherridon, has grown to over 300,000 hectares after two separate fires merged. Despite the challenges, Manitoba has managed to secure communities like Pukatawagan from the approaching wildfires, thanks to favorable winds.
With 21 communities declaring local states of emergency, and 26 already evacuated, the situation remains critical. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor emphasized the scale of the evacuation efforts, with plans to provide hotel accommodations for all displaced residents. Evacuees can expect daily stipends to assist with their immediate needs.
As the air quality worsens, First Nations communities are preparing for further evacuations of vulnerable residents with medical conditions. Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs highlighted the need for a more coordinated and swift response to ensure the safety of all evacuees.
In the midst of this crisis, the Winnipeg Humane Society has opened a shelter for pets left behind in evacuated communities. With ongoing support from firefighters and volunteers, efforts are being made to care for these animals until they can be reunited with their owners.
The situation in Manitoba remains fluid, with updates and alerts being issued regularly. For the latest information on wildfires and evacuation procedures, residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and emergency services.
