With 12,000 already displaced, Manitoba officials say they’re ready to shelter thousands more as 122 wildfire continue to burn across the province.
Thousands Already Evacuated Across Manitoba
As wildfires burn across Manitoba, officials confirmed Monday that approximately 12,000 residents have already been evacuated. Many have been relocated to hotels within the province, while others are staying in emergency shelters in Winnipeg and accommodations in neighbouring Ontario.
Fires Continue Despite Rainfall Relief
Although recent rainfall has aided firefighting efforts in northern areas, 122 wildfires remain active. The province has reported a total of 297 fires this season—well above the 20-year average of 217.
Christine Stevens, Assistant Deputy Minister of Manitoba Emergency Management Organization, stated that current evacuations were based on live assessments of wildfire risk, including smoke conditions, road accessibility, and health needs.
Shelter Capacity Expanded for Potential Surges
At a news conference, Stevens announced that over 5,000 additional shelter beds are available should evacuations increase. Standby sites in Winnipeg and Portage la Prairie are prepped for rapid deployment.
“The decision to evacuate is based on immediate risk and made in collaboration with local leadership,” she said.
Thompson Under Watch, No Evacuation Yet
In northern Manitoba, Thompson’s 13,000 residents were warned late last week to be prepared. However, with improved weather and fire barriers, the city has avoided evacuation—at least for now.
“We’re feeling quite confident,” said Kristin Hayward, Assistant Deputy Minister for the Manitoba Wildfire Service. “But the situation remains dynamic.”
Key Communities Still at Risk
Fires continue to threaten areas near Leaf Rapids, Snow Lake, and Cross Lake. A major concern is the fire near Nopiming Provincial Park, which is spreading north into Atikaki Provincial Park and into Ontario territory.
Crews have made some progress near Split Lake, Garden Hill, and York Landing, but officials caution that shifting winds could change conditions rapidly.
Global Teams Aid in Fire Suppression
Manitoba’s firefighting response has been reinforced by over 200 personnel from Mexico, along with teams from Minnesota, New Zealand, Parks Canada, and more. Additional support from Australia and Quebec is expected to arrive this week.
So far this fire season, 12,736 square kilometres have burned—equivalent to 2.3% of Manitoba’s landmass.
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