With extreme wildfire danger threatening much of the province, the Manitoba government has declared a provincial state of emergency and implemented Level 3 fire and travel restrictions across all designated burn permit areas as of 8 a.m., Thursday, May 30.
The restrictions will remain in place until at least June 26.
The decision comes as the Manitoba Wildfire Service (MWS) reports that human activity continues to play a major role in the wildfire situation. Over 100 fires have been recorded so far this year, well above the seasonal average of 80.
What the Level 3 restrictions mean
Under the Level 3 restrictions, all hiking trails and water routes are now closed. Boaters are still permitted on the water, but can only launch or land at developed shorelines, and shore launches are not allowed. Camping is limited to developed campgrounds, and access to wilderness lodges or outfitters is only permitted with a travel permit. Access by aircraft is allowed but restricted to lakes with developed docks or shorelines.
Industrial operations can continue, provided they are licensed and follow fire-safe procedures. However, work hours may be restricted to reduce risk during peak burning times. Travel to industrial sites via non-designated roads will also require a travel permit, issued at the discretion of local conservation officers. All existing burn permits are now cancelled, and no new ones will be issued until further notice. In some cases, agricultural or industrial burning may be allowed, but only after an inspection by a provincial officer.
To see which areas are under restrictions, residents can view the latest fire and travel map at: www.gov.mb.ca/conservation_fire/Restrictions/index.html. To request a travel permit, contact Manitoba Conservation at 204-345-1489.
Park and trail closures across Manitoba
Manitoba Parks has also announced that the campground at Bakers Narrows Provincial Park is closed. All campers, including those with seasonal sites, were required to leave by 8 p.m. Thursday, May 29. As of Friday morning, May 30, all hiking trails and water routes in provincial parks across Manitoba are closed until further notice.
Be prepared to evacuate
The province is urging all residents returning to wildfire-affected areas to be ready to evacuate again at a moment's notice. Everyone is encouraged to prepare an emergency go kit. A guide on what to include can be found at: www.gov.mb.ca/emo/guide/individuals/.
Municipal and evacuation support
Municipalities have also implemented their own burning restrictions, so it's important to check with local officials or visit the interactive restrictions map at: www.manitoba.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.html.
Evacuees who do not have a place to stay can go to the Billy Mosienko Arena at 709 Keewatin Street in Winnipeg. This reception centre, managed by the Canadian Red Cross and provincial Emergency Social Services, will remain open 24 hours a day until further notice. Evacuees are encouraged to register as soon as possible either online at www.redcross.ca/2025manitobawildfires or by calling 1-800-863-6582 between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. CST.
Stay informed
Up-to-date wildfire information is available on the provincial wildfire website at www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire. You can also follow the Manitoba government on X (formerly Twitter) for updates at twitter.com/mbgov.
Wildfires can be reported by calling 911 or the TIP line at 1-800-782-0076.
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