The Manitoba Wildfire Service advises that due to increased lightning and minimal precipitation, wildfire danger levels are high throughout Manitoba and high to extreme in northwestern Manitoba. There are currently 39 fires burning in Manitoba with three new fire starts in the past 24 hours.
Air-quality statements have been issued for parts of northwest Manitoba due to smoke. There are no current restriction in place. However, Manitobans are reminded to avoid wildfire areas and watch for road closure or detour signs.
Fire Updates:
Fire WE025 The Pas
Approximately 40 km south of The Pas, the fire is estimated to be 170 hectares (ha) in area. Crews continue to make good progress on the fire including 80 per cent completion of a bulldozer fireguard surrounding the fire.
Fire WE026 (Mathias Colomb Cree Nation)
Approximately two km east of Mathias Colomb Cree Nation (MCNN), the fire is estimated to be 10,000 ha. Due to the vicinity of the wildfire, MCCN has activated its emergency plan and called for the evacuation of all community members. Crews are on the ground in MCCN to assist with the protection of homes and critical structures.
Fire NO030 (east of MCCN)
An Incident Management Team is currently assessing the fire and developing a strategy for action.
Fire NO024 Fox Mine
Fire is estimated 2,000 ha. A lodge in the area has been evacuated and structures protected. No infrastructure or additional structures are at risk.
Fire NO009 (Gilliam)
Fire is six km from Gilliam and estimated 178 ha. Fire crews are managing any hot spots.
The Manitoba Wildfire Services reminds Manitobans to be ‘Fire Smart’. Walk around houses and remove any large fuel sources within 10 metres that could burn, such as woodpiles, spare lumber, vehicles and boats.
For areas where ATV use is allowed, riders are reminded they can play a role in protecting against wildfires. Anyone using an ATV is asked to stay on developed trails, ensure the ATV has a working spark arrestor, check areas around the engine and exhaust frequently, and carefully remove and extinguish any debris from these areas. Operators are also reminded to be prepared by carrying a fire extinguisher, axe and shovel.
For further information on Manitoba Wildfire Service, situation updates, restrictions and other important wildfire links go to www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire/ or follow the Twitter account at https://twitter.com/mbgovnews
To report a wildfire, call 911 or the T.I.P. line (toll-free) at 1-800-782-0076.
