"It's a very serious situation." That from Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew in an update on the province's wildfire situation Thursday, who says fire fighters from across Manitoba and beyond continue to blazes on several fronts.
As of Thursday morning, Kinew said there were 16,800 evacuees registered in Manitoba. Many of which have been put up in hotels across Manitoba, occupying about 1,700 rooms.
He added, it's been great to see people step up and provide donations, volunteer at shelters and even take evacuees into their homes.
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Meantime, the Manitoba Day of Caring for Wildfire Evacuees continues today with broadcasters across the province joining together to support those displaced and evacuated due to the fires raging across parts of Manitoba.
As wildfires continue to threaten communities, MIX 96.7FM, Country 107.7 and AM 1250 are giving Manitobans the opportunity to show their care and concern. Funds raised today during the Manitoba Day of Caring for Wildfire Evacuees will go directly to the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Manitoba Wildfires Appeal.
As of 3 p.m., $270,189 had been raised.
Premier Kinew says he made his donation earlier in the day.
"Shout out to Golden West for being a leader in this, and a shout out to all of your listeners for being so generous," he noted.
The Government of Canada and the Government of Manitoba will match donations to the 2025 Manitoba Wildfires Appeal from today through June 27th.
That means every $1 donated today will become $3 to support the families and individuals most affected by the wildfires. According to Kinew, the Saskatchewan government is also contributing $15 million to the effort.
"We know that folks are super generous and always step up, whether it's donating time, food or money. When we see our fellow Manitobans in need, it's just awesome to see that generous spirit. I know a lot of people are talking about, today, how proud they are," added Kinew.