Despite some cooler temperatures and rain in the forecast, the wildfire threat across Manitoba remains extremely high, with 28 active fires and evacuation orders still in place throughout the province.
Eastern region faces largest blaze
The most severe wildfire activity continues in eastern Manitoba. Fire EA061, burning from Bird River to Bissett, has grown to approximately 203,720 hectares and remains out of control. Provincial Road 315 is closed at the Tanco Mine north of Bird River, cutting off access to Nopiming Provincial Park, Bissett, and PR 314. Evacuation orders remain in place for both Bissett and Nopiming, while a two-hour evacuation notice is in effect for the RM of Alexander from Tall Timber Road to Hill Drive.
Another major fire, EA063, located near the Ontario border at Ingolf, is burning out of control at roughly 6,549 hectares on the Manitoba side. Known in Ontario as KEN#020, this fire spans an additional 31,300 hectares across the border. Whiteshell Provincial Park remains partially under evacuation orders due to this blaze.
Some eastern Manitoba residents have been permitted to return home, but the province urges them to be ready to leave again at short notice. All returning residents are advised to prepare an emergency go kit and monitor provincial updates closely.
Wildfire danger remains extreme across the province
As of Saturday, Manitoba has recorded 113 wildfires in 2025, well above the 20-year average of 97 for this time of year. The province remains under a state of emergency until at least June 26.
While rain may help in some areas, officials stress that human activity continues to contribute significantly to the wildfire situation. A full burn ban is in effect across all provincial parks and designated burn permit zones. Campfires are prohibited even in approved fire pits, and backcountry travel is banned without a special permit.
Evacuations and firefighting efforts ongoing in north and west
In the western region, Fire WE017—now merged with WE024—is the largest in the province at approximately 307,781 hectares and remains uncontrolled near Sherridon. Mandatory evacuations remain for Snow Lake, Sherridon, Grass River Provincial Park, Wekusko Falls, Big Island, Bakers Narrows, Flin Flon and other nearby areas.
Elsewhere in the west, Cranberry Portage remains under an evacuation order due to Fire WE023. Fires near Grand Rapids, Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (Pukatawagan), and Bakers Narrows also continue to burn out of control.
In northern Manitoba, communities such as Lynn Lake, Cross Lake, and Split Lake remain evacuated due to large wildfires near each of these communities. Fires NO002, NO005 and NO010 each range from 20,000 to more than 70,000 hectares and are not yet contained.
Support for evacuees
Eligible residents under mandatory evacuation orders can apply for financial support through the Wildfire Incidental Support Program. Adults can receive $34 per day and children $27. Residents must be registered with the Canadian Red Cross to qualify.
Evacuees needing shelter are encouraged to go to one of the following reception centres:
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Billy Mosienko Arena, Winnipeg – open 24/7
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Victoria Inn, Brandon – open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
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Burntwood Hotel, Thompson – open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Medical, mental health and Indigenous wellness supports are available at shelter sites and through Shared Health and Health Links.
Fire restrictions and resources
Level 3 fire and travel restrictions remain in place across all provincial parks and burn permit areas. Manitoba Parks has closed all trails and backcountry routes, with some eastern and northern parks entirely closed to public access.
To stay updated or apply for travel permits, Manitobans should visit:
For real-time road conditions, visit www.manitoba511.ca. To report a wildfire, call 911 or the TIP line at 1-800-782-0076.
How to help
Monetary donations are encouraged in place of in-kind donations. The governments of Manitoba and Canada are matching donations to the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Manitoba Wildfire Appeal, tripling each dollar contributed. More information is available at www.redcross.ca.