A lightning strike ignited a wildfire at Oak Hammock Marsh on the evening of May 11, raising concerns as the region heads into the summer season. The blaze, which broke out around 8 p.m. near the Wetland Discovery Centre, quickly threatened the surrounding environment. Thankfully, the flames moved away from the building, preventing any structural damage, and a swift response from firefighters brought the fire under control by 11:45 p.m. However, with forecasts predicting unusually warm and dry conditions, such fires may become more frequent, making it all the more urgent to take proactive steps in prevention and awareness.
Preventing human-caused fires
About half of all wildland fires across the Prairies, like the one at Oak Hammock Marsh, are sparked by lightning. The other half is attributed to human activity, which ranges from malicious intent to accidental causes, such as trains emitting sparks. Although lightning-caused fires are inevitable, many wildfires are preventable through simple changes in daily behavior. Natalie Hasell, a warning preparedness meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, stresses the importance of being mindful when outdoors.
"If you smoke, pay attention to what you're doing with your matches and your cigarette butts," Hasell explains. "Most of the province is under a fire ban right now, so if people are paying attention, they shouldn't be lighting any open fires. If you are in an area where you are allowed, keep the fires small and completely extinguish them when you are done, so that you don't risk the spread of a fire."
Hasell warns that the recent dry and windy conditions are fueling wildfires, creating ideal conditions for flames to spread quickly.
“It’s windy enough that if something does start, it will take off. A grass fire can spread to any trees nearby and quickly become a wildland fire. It’s very easy in these conditions, so take care with your habits and try to prevent fires from happening in the first place."
Because even light wind gusts can quickly fan the flames, Hasell suggests that residents living near wooded areas should consider the FireSmart program to help safeguard their homes and property.
Related stories:
- Austin firefighters act fast in back-to-back fire calls
- Crews respond to large marsh fire Thursday night near St. Ambroise
- Manitoba RCMP arrest two following wildfires sparked by illegal burns
The importance of smoke safety
Alongside the threat of fire, Hasell emphasizes the significant health risks posed by wildfire smoke. She urges people to limit outdoor activities when air quality is poor or when temperatures are high.
"Check in on those who are more susceptible; the very young, the very old, pregnant people, or people with chronic medical conditions,” she adds. “People exposed to the outdoors for longer periods, like the homeless, may find these months very difficult with the heat and smoke combined. There are significant health hazards there, so be a good neighbor. Check in on people, find out how they're doing, and get them the help they need.”
Rising fire risks across Manitoba
While it's still relatively early in the wildfire season, the Oak Hammock blaze is one of several that have already tested firefighting crews across Portage and the surrounding region. With forecasts calling for a hotter, drier-than-usual summer across much of southern Manitoba, this likely won’t be the last.
“Only the very southwestern corner of the province has gotten near normal amounts of precipitation over the last two months. There has been some precipitation, but it's been pretty sporadic with enough time between events for things to dry out. The three-month forecast issued on the 30th of April suggests that May, June, and July for most of southern Manitoba will be not only hotter than normal, but also drier than normal. We'll get some precipitation, but will the events be close enough together to stop or avoid fires? I don't know.”
As Portage and the surrounding areas brace for an extended period of heat and dry conditions, fire officials and meteorologists are urging everyone to stay vigilant. Simple actions—such as adhering to fire bans, avoiding anything that could spark a fire, and checking on vulnerable neighbors—can make a big difference in protecting our communities and natural spaces throughout the season.
Visit the Government of Manitoba’s official website for the latest updates on active burning restrictions and safety guidelines.