Wildfires in Manitoba force evacuations in Snow Lake and threaten Garden Hill First Nation as dry, windy conditions fuel fast-growing blazes.
Garden Hill First Nation on High Alert
A fast-moving wildfire near Garden Hill First Nation in northern Manitoba is raising serious alarm among residents, with more than 60 people already airlifted out by Wednesday evening. Located on the north shore of Island Lake, the remote fly-in community of over 4,500 is facing increasing danger as wind conditions shift unpredictably. Social media videos show smoke clouds looming over the area while water bombers attempt to contain the blaze, which had grown to approximately 52 hectares by Wednesday afternoon.
Local resident Dwayne Chornoby expressed deep concern over the fire’s proximity and unpredictability. “It looks really close,” he said, warning that worsening wind could put thousands at risk. Although a full evacuation hasn’t yet been declared, community members are bracing for the possibility as smoke thickens and air quality deteriorates.
Snow Lake Under Mandatory Evacuation
In a rapid turn of events late Wednesday night, the town of Snow Lake issued a mandatory evacuation order, giving residents until Thursday at noon to leave. This is the second evacuation for the community of just over 1,000 residents this wildfire season. Earlier in June, they were forced to flee due to another nearby fire.
Currently, three wildfires are burning within 25 kilometres of the town, including one particularly volatile blaze just 24 kilometres away. Southerly winds have been pushing the flames northward, while westerly gusts are expected to blanket the area in thick smoke. Snow Lake lies 685 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg and sits directly in the path of worsening fire conditions.
Provincial Park Closure Amid Growing Threat
Manitoba Parks has closed the southern portion of Atikaki Provincial Park, effective 5 p.m. Wednesday, as a massive wildfire—now estimated at 234,390 hectares—threatens the protected area. The closure affects the Bloodvein and Gammon river corridors, along with Aikens Lake, displacing campers, outdoor guides, and local tourism operators.
Garrett Fache, owner of Wild Loon Adventure Company, said the environment feels dangerously dry. “It’s like walking through a fireplace, just waiting for the match,” he said, highlighting the urgency of the province’s warnings.
Province Battles Record Wildfire Season
Manitoba is facing one of its most severe wildfire seasons on record. As of Wednesday, officials are battling 98 active wildfires across the province. In total, 252 wildfires have been reported this year—well above the seasonal average. Dry conditions, extreme heat, and shifting winds continue to hamper firefighting efforts, and much of the province remains under high to extreme fire danger alerts.
Provincial authorities are urging residents in affected areas to remain alert, follow evacuation notices, and avoid unnecessary travel near active fire zones. Emergency services remain on high readiness as the situation continues to evolve.
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