Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew says there is a tonne of compassion being displayed as wildfires burn out of control in all regions of our province.
Kinew says a final evacuation occurred earlier today in Flin Flon. He notes the Mayor and Council decided that conditions there are so serious that even the last few workers need to leave the city. Kinew says healthcare workers left this morning, while the Mayor and Council and some final buses vacated shortly after. The only individuals remaining on the ground are the firefighters and those with the Office of the Fire Commissioner and RCMP.
"We do expect some very, very challenging conditions in Flin Flon and in the surrounding community, particularly later this afternoon," notes Kinew. "The situation there is very, very serious and we are doing everything that we can to preserve life but also to preserve peoples' livelihoods and homes in the region."
The challenging conditions Kinew is referring to is with the wind. He notes the wind is forecast to change direction later today, threatening the city of Flin Flon.
Kinew says over the course of the rest of today, Manitobans can expect thousands of more residents from Northern Manitoba to be moved to safety in other parts of the province. While most of those will end up in Winnipeg, he says places like Winkler and Portage are also hosting evacuees.
"In the coming days we will also need those logistical supports because this is going to be a continued effort to keep Manitobans safe," says Kinew. "So, in addition to people who are going to be on the front lines battling the flames, we also need people who are going to be cooks and able to demobilize and move equipment, people who can map the fires as they continue to develop. And then all the transportation and logistics, the mechanics that support the aircraft and all of those things."
Kinew commends the "important work" of civil servants, the Canadian Red Cross, The Salvation Army, and health officials, who are caring for people during their time of need. He says these are long and very tiring days both for evacuees but also those delivering help.
For those wanting to help, Kinew encourages Manitobans to donate through the Canadian Red Cross. If a family member or friend needs shelter, Kinew asks individuals to provide a place. He also thanks the numerous businesses and humanitarian organizations who have stepped up to truly embody the best of Manitoba.
"The situation across Canada is very, very grave and very serious, and our hearts go out to our neighbours in Saskatchewan, who are battling massive wildfires in their province," says Kinew. "But because the situation is so serious across Canada, we are now turning internationally for help."
Kinew says he received word today that 125 firefighters will be coming up from the United States, with 25 of those being managerial workers who will be able to provide logistical support. He adds crews are here from Alberta, BC, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Quebec.
"We are using every firefighter that we have," he says. "It's been great to see municipal and local fire step up as well too, folks throughout the province including Southern Manitoba."
To the rest of Manitoba, Kinew says to pray for rain and put any plans for bonfires on hold.
"Be calm and cooperate with evacuation orders and give space for firefighters and other first responders to do their work," he urges.