Manitoba Wildfire Evacuees Face Hurdles as Return Efforts Begin

Evacuees in several Manitoba communities faced challenges as they attempted to return home. While some evacuation orders were lifted, hurdles remained.

Tataskweyak Cree Nation initially lifted its evacuation order but then delayed the return of its 2,400 residents due to issues with the water system. Water tests revealed high aluminum levels, necessitating cleaning of the pipes and reservoir before residents could safely return.

Evacuees from Bissett, near the Manitoba-Ontario boundary, also had their evacuation order lifted. They had been displaced last month due to a wildfire near Nopiming Provincial Park.

In Flin Flon, one of the largest evacuated communities, residents were still awaiting a decrease in the fire threat before being allowed to return. A significant out-of-control fire, covering approximately 3,700 square kilometers, continued to burn north and east of the city.

At the height of the evacuations, around 21,000 residents were displaced, straining the province's resources. The government encouraged tourists to reconsider travel plans to Manitoba. A substantial portion of the evacuees came from the Pimicikamak Cree Nation. Residents in Snow Lake, Sherridon, and Herb Lake Landing have also begun to return home.

Recent rainfall and cooler temperatures have provided relief to both Manitoba and Saskatchewan, leading to the easing of fire bans and allowing more evacuees to return. In Saskatchewan, 13 active fires were reported, with three out of control. The province reported that residents across 34 communities were in the process of returning home.