The Kenora 51 fire continues to threaten Wabaseemoong Independent Nation and the community continues to evaluate the communities needs and safety.
Kenora 51 is approximately 183,430 hectares and is burning on the north side of Umfreville Lake, around 12 kilometres north of Wabaseemoong.
Chief and Council have been working closely with the MNRF, as well as federal and provincial governments to create an action plan to be ready should an evacuation becomes necessary.
"We are assessing this situation on a daily basis, and at this point have implemented to start evacuations, however with the situation changing so quickly we are continuing to explore our options to make sure our people aren't displaced too far away from their homes, and immediate needs or families," said Chief Waylon Scott on behalf of himself and his council. "We want to thank all the organizations and staff who have been helping us navigate this, and we will continue to keep the health and safety of our membership the top of mind as we go through the next few days."
Multiple local organizations such as Kenora Chiefs Advisory, Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’iyewigamig, Kenora District Services Board, the All Nation Health Partners, and other service providers are also assisting to make sure health, transportation, and lodging needs are met.
The community has an evacuation plan is in place for multiple stages including vulnerable populations and those with underlying health conditions and then proceed to evacuate the community as a whole.
Another fire in Manitoba called EA153 is approximately 500 hectares and burning to the west of Minaki and south of Wabaseemoong.