Thousands Evacuate in Manitoba as Wildfires Intensify

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew emphasizes collective action and community support in crisis.

In a concerning escalation of wildfires, Manitoba has declared a state of emergency as over 17,000 residents are ordered to evacuate due to uncontrollable blazes threatening their communities. Premier Wab Kinew, addressing the media late Wednesday, urged residents to move towards urban centers like Winnipeg that are equipped with emergency support and temporary accommodations.

"This is the largest evacuation Manitoba has witnessed in many people's lifetimes," Kinew stated. The cities of Flin Flon along with First Nations communities, including Pimicikamak and Mathias Colomb, implemented urgent evacuation directives as the situation worsened. To mitigate the crisis, the Canadian military is stepping in to assist with evacuations, including air transport.

Evacuations are set to commence imminently, targeting those displaced, many of whom will find temporary shelter in Winnipeg’s arenas and public spaces, as confirmed by Kinew. Flin Flon’s Mayor, George Fontaine, has indicated that all residents need to evacuate by midnight, stating, “I’m busy packing a couple of things, and everyone is getting organized as best they can.”

This year's wildfire season has already caused tragic incidents; earlier this month, two individuals lost their lives in a western town as they were unable to evacuate in time. As of yesterday, the province is grappling with 22 active wildfires, 11 of which are deemed uncontrollable. The fire threatening Flin Flon has burned roughly 50,000 acres, with another near Sherridon encompassing about 100,000 acres.

Kinew addressed the residents, acknowledging their fear and uncertainty, but reassured them, “Your fellow Manitobans will welcome you. We will navigate this challenging time together, as we have always done.” The unfolding events highlight the critical need for community solidarity in the face of natural disasters.