Wildfires continue to wreak havoc across northern Manitoba.
A fire entered the town of Leaf Rapids on Wednesday, causing damage to between five and seven buildings, most of which were abandoned, with only one of those being a residence.
Fire crews had to retreat to safety in response to the intense wildfire activity. However, they were able to return within the hour, working through the night to keep the blaze contained.
Across the province, the fire risk is medium to high, with areas to the north of greatest concern.
Meanwhile, Nopiming Provincial Park will reopen to all permanent residents, cottages and commercial operators today. Although the fire is still considered out of control, the province feels it is safe enough for people to return.
While Bird Lake Campground is open, all other campgrounds in Nopiming will remain closed for the rest of the season, including Beresford Lake, Black Lake and Tulabi Falls. The backcountry campsites at Shoe Lake are also closed, along with all water routes and hiking trails in the park.
Fire and smoke are expected to persist in the area throughout the summer and fall.
The province remains under a provincial state of emergency as crews battle against the worst on record wildfire season in the last 30 years. To date, more than one million hectares of area have been burned in the province.
Manitoba Wildfire Service continues to respond to 124 active wildfires across the province, a total of 333 wildfires to date, well above the average for this date of 252 total fires.