Forest fires continue to rage in Manitoba

Evacuation Alert Continues for Cranberry Portage, Rain in Forecast Expected to Help Situation

Manitoba Conservation advises that Cranberry Portage and residents of the Sourdough Bay cottage development remain on an evacuation alert, but progress continues to be made fighting the fire north of the town. As well, rain is forecast for today over the area, with potential for more rain over much of the north by tomorrow.

There were only two new fires reported yesterday and neither is posing any problems today.

In addition, the Gyles, Iskwasum and Reed Lake campgrounds in Grass River Provincial Park are set to reopen tomorrow. The campground at Bakers Narrows remains closed but the situation will be assessed again tomorrow.

The Kisseynew Lake fire is at approximately 55,000 hectares and remains about 13 kilometres east of Cranberry Portage. Work to protect communities, camps, cottages and cabins in the area continues, with the assistance of the Manitoba Office of the Fire Commissioner.

There are 440 firefighters, 13 helicopters, 13 water bombers and other heavy equipment continuing to fight this fire. Manitoba’s efforts are being greatly assisted by water bombers, support aircraft and fire crews from Ontario, B.C. and Minnesota.  

The road between Cranberry Portage and Sherridon is open for local traffic. 

The latest information on forest fires, restrictions and the status of provincial campgrounds is available at www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/fire or local district Manitoba Conservation offices.

Travel restrictions and a ban on all open fires continues in the Cranberry Portage, Flin Flon, The Pas and Thompson areas and all the way to the northern edge of the province, due to the high fire hazard.