Wildfires threatening communities in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, thousands forced to flee

Both Manitoba and Saskatchewan have declared a state of emergency due to wildfires.

Manitoba

Manitoba is reporting large areas of very high-to-extreme fire danger, and human activity continues to significantly contribute to Manitoba’s current wildfire situation.

The federal government and the Canadian Armed Forces are working to support the evacuation of Mathias Colomb Cree Nation, but conditions are very smoky. Evacuation efforts are continuing with multiple agencies participating in the response. Additionally, efforts are underway to support the evacuation of Pimicikamak Cree Nation and Cross Lake.

A fire estimated at 2,200 hectares near Tataskweyak Cree Nation is blocking part of Provincial Road 280, so at this time, the only safe route out is toward Gillam.

Significant additional resources have been requested, and support continues to arrive from other parts of the country and the Canadian Armed Forces, including aircraft that are working to help evacuate threatened communities.

Saskatchewan

There are 15 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Seven are not contained, three are contained, four are ongoing assessments, and one is protecting values.

There are evacuations in effect for:

• Piprell Lake

• Narrow Hills Provincial Park

• East Trout Lake

• Foran Mine – McIlvenna Bay

• Little Bear Lake

• Hall Lake

• Brabant Lake

• Lower Fishing Lake

• Pelican Narrows

• Resort Village of Whelan Bay

• Birch Portage First Nation

• Canoe Lake

• Sturgeon Weir

• Deschambault Lake

• Creighton/Denare Beach/Jan Lake

• Weyakwin

Weather making matters worse

This weekend, hot, dry weather is expected for Manitoba and Saskatchewan, which will not help the situation.