Tataskweyak Cree Nation lifts wildfire evacuation order after two weeks; Red Cross assists with return travel as blaze is brought under control.
Residents Begin Returning to Tataskweyak Cree Nation
After more than two weeks of displacement due to an out-of-control wildfire, evacuees from the Tataskweyak Cree Nation in northern Manitoba began returning home Monday evening.
Evacuation Order Lifted by Chief and Council
On June 10 at 6:45 p.m. CT, Tataskweyak’s chief and council officially lifted the evacuation order, initially issued on May 30. The decision was shared via a public statement on the community’s Facebook page.
Emergency Declared Following Power Loss
Tataskweyak, also known as Split Lake, declared a state of emergency on May 29 when a nearby wildfire—just one kilometre away—caused a community-wide power outage. Fearing worsening conditions, leadership ordered a full evacuation the next day.
Displacement Across Manitoba and Ontario
Thousands of Tataskweyak residents were evacuated to locations including Thompson, Brandon, Winnipeg, and even Niagara Falls, Ontario. They joined nearly 21,000 others who were displaced across Manitoba due to multiple wildfires.
Fire Contained, Return Coordinated by Red Cross
According to a Monday fire update, the wildfire threatening the community is now being contained. The Canadian Red Cross is coordinating transportation for returning residents, ensuring a safe and organized repatriation.
Emotional Reunions After Weeks Apart
Melanie Spence, who was evacuated to Thompson, expressed relief and joy at the news. “I was cheering. I was so happy. People were crying … they get to go home and reunite with their families,” she said. Spence’s family had been scattered across different cities but now plans to reunite in Tataskweyak.
Community Hopeful as Normalcy Resumes
The return marks a turning point in the community’s crisis response, as residents look to resume normal life and reconnect with loved ones. Online posts from Tataskweyak residents express widespread joy and gratitude as travel arrangements continue.
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