The Manitoba Wildfire Service (MWS) says there continues to be a significant wildfire threat in eastern Manitoba. It says forest fuels remain dry and that human activity has contributed significantly to Manitoba's current wildfire situation. Residents are asked to adhere to the fire and travel restrictions for their area.
The MWS continues to respond to 17 active wildfires across the province. There has been a total of 93 wildfires so far this year, which is above the average of 75 for this time of year.
The fire near Carrick, which has been burning since May 10th, is being held. It covers an area of approximately 8,904 hectares. Our province says the cause of this fire remains under investigation.
The fire near Bird River remains out of control. Our province says approximately 121,750 hectares have burned. Provincial Road (PR) 315 is closed and blocked at Bird River. PR 314 is closed and blocked at Bissett. This fire has been burning since May 12th. Officials believe the fire was caused naturally.
The fire near Lac du Bonnet is under control. MWS says the fire is approximately 4,008 hectares in size. The fire was detected on May 13th, and it is believed the fire was started by humans.
And finally, the fire along the Ontario border near Ingolf, continues to burn out of control. It is approximately 31,300 hectares in size, with 1,650 hectares burning on the Manitoba side of the border. This fire was first detected on May 15th, and its cause remains under investigation.
Manitoba Parks has extended the State of Local Emergency for Nopiming, Wallace Lake, South Atikaki, and Manigotagan River provincial parks currently in effect until June 20. A full fire ban continues in place at all provincial parks across Manitoba. No fires of any kind at any time of day are permitted until further notice. This includes campfires in approved fire pits. The use of charcoal briquettes is prohibited. Gas appliances, such as propane barbeques and stoves, can be used. Fireworks and sky lanterns are prohibited in Manitoba's provincial parks.