Evacuation Warning Issued for Cranberry Portage, Manitoba

Manitoba Conservation advises that smoke from forest fires in northern Manitoba has resulted in six people being moved from Cormorant and an evacuation warning being issued for the community of Cranberry Portage, near Flin Flon.

 

The six residents of Cormorant were moved due to potential respiratory effects from the smoke and all indicate they will be staying with relatives in The Pas.  Iskwasum and Gyles campgrounds in the Grass River Provincial Park are also under mandatory evacuation. 

 

In addition, a warning has been issued for residents of Cranberry Portage to be prepared to evacuate. The evacuation warning for Cranberry Portage is due to smoke from the fire at Kisseynew Lake, between Cranberry Portage and Sherridon. 

 

As a result of extremely dry conditions, low humidity and strong, gusting winds, the Kisseynew Lake fire has grown to approximately 10,000 hectares. Efforts to protect camps, cottages and cabins in the area continue with the assistance of the Office of the Fire Commissioner. There are 29 firefighting crews, 11 helicopters, eight water bombers and other heavy equipment being used in fighting this fire. Manitoba’s efforts have been supplemented by water bombers, support aircraft and fire crews from Ontario and Minnesota.  

 

The road between Cranberry Portage and Sherridon is closed except for local traffic. As well, PTH 39 between PTH 10 and the Snow Lake junction is now closed due to smoke causing reduced visibility.