The Manitoba Wildfire Service says most of the province remains under high to very high wildfire danger, particularly in the north, where the threat of fire spread is most severe.
As of July 9, there are 83 active wildfires burning across Manitoba, well above the seasonal average of 191 fires to date, with 237 reported so far this year.
Evacuees in need of assistance are now being directed to the Leila Soccer Complex at 770 Leila Avenue in Winnipeg, which is serving as the province’s primary evacuation reception centre.
While fire and travel restrictions have been lifted in much of the province, travel permits are still required to enter areas within active fire boundaries. Fire maps and permit application details are available on the provincial government’s wildfire webpage.
The Manitoba Conservation Officer Service reports it has issued 96 charges and 32 warnings related to wildfire activity since May 1.
Fires of note
In the east region, Fire EA061 near Nopiming Provincial Park is still out of control and spans roughly 234,390 hectares. Portions of the park and all of Wallace Lake and South Atikaki provincial parks remain under evacuation orders. PR 314 through Nopiming is closed, while PR 315 is open with limited access.
In the west region, Fire WE017 near Sherridon and Flin Flon has grown to approximately 370,780 hectares and is out of control. Firefighters are urging boaters to stay clear of waterways used by suppression aircraft.
A mandatory evacuation remains in place for Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (Pukatawagan) due to Fire WE025, which is currently being monitored but is considered contained. Several other fires near Snow Lake and Bakers Narrows continue to burn out of control.
In the north, the town of Lynn Lake remains under a mandatory evacuation order due to Fires NO002 and NO042, which together cover over 89,000 hectares. Significant fires also continue near Cross Lake, Leaf Rapids, Split Lake, Thompson, Wabowden and Garden Hill.
Resources for evacuees
Manitobans affected by wildfires can find support and updates at MBReady, which includes information on Red Cross registration, financial assistance, shelter, health resources, and insurance.
Officials remind residents returning to reopened areas to remain alert and be prepared to evacuate again with little notice. Guidance on emergency preparedness and go kits is available at manitoba.ca/emo.
For immediate support, evacuees can dial 211 or email 211mb@findhelp.ca.