Provincial parks in eastern Manitoba remain closed due to ongoing wildfires, with evacuation orders still in place in several areas.
Park closures and fire restrictions Manitoba Parks reports that Whiteshell, Nopiming, and other eastern region provincial parks remain closed as wildfires continue to burn out of control. Fire bans are also in effect for all eastern and central region parks. Manitobans can stay updated on park closures, active wildfire maps, and fire restrictions through Manitoba Parks' website and other resources. This information was shared on the Manitoba Parks Facebook page.
Lac du Bonnet evacuation update The state of local emergency remains in effect in Lac du Bonnet, where evacuation orders continue for areas identified in the RM's emergency map. While recent rainfall has helped, officials say the Wendigo #62 fire is still not under control. Roadblocks remain in place for the evacuation zone, and residents are asked to stay out of the area to allow crews to continue their work.
The emergency coordinator notes their Emergency Operations team is hopeful that re-entry into the evacuated areas "will be done soon and planning for that re-entry will start on Saturday BUT the re-entry has yet to be confirmed by the Wildfire Service. That recommendation will only come when the fire is under control and the safety of our residents can be assured." - Facebook.com/lacdubonnetemergencymanagement
Piney wildfire response The Rural Municipality of Piney reports the following information on its Facebook page: That Fire EA057 is still listed as out of control as of 11:30 a.m. on May 17. However, weather conditions are improving, and additional firefighting resources are being deployed to secure the perimeter of the fire. The Florze area is currently held, but evacuations remain in place. A further update on evacuation status is expected later today.
As of May 16, the fire is estimated to cover 8,904 hectares and is 50 percent contained. A third structure has been confirmed lost in the fire. A reception centre for evacuees is set up at the Piney Community Centre, with emergency support available for those affected. Cheque distribution for evacuees is scheduled for May 17 and 18 at locations in Lac du Bonnet, Winnipeg, and Steinbach. -
Alexander fire situation The Municipality of Alexander reports that fire crews are continuing efforts to contain wildfires between PR 315 and PR 313. Heavy equipment is being used to establish firebreaks, and water bombers have been active in the area. Officials note that no structures have been lost in Alexander to date.
Rainfall has helped keep fire activity down, but officials caution that conditions could change quickly once the area dries out. The evacuation order remains in effect.