Inferno in the North: Manitoba Declares State of Emergency Amid Raging Wildfires

Manitoba has declared a provincewide state of emergency as wildfires continue to spread, forcing thousands to evacuate. Premier Wab Kinew announced the measure, calling it the largest evacuation in living memory for the province.  

The fires have already displaced 17,000 people, with communities such as Flin Flon, Pimicikamak Cree Nation, and Mathias Colomb First Nation issuing mandatory evacuation orders. The Canadian Armed Forces have been deployed to assist in transporting evacuees to safety.  

The wildfire threatening Flin Flon originated in Creighton, Saskatchewan, before crossing into Manitoba. Officials say water bombers were grounded due to a drone flying nearby, hampering firefighting efforts.  

With extreme fire conditions persisting, authorities are urging residents to follow evacuation orders and seek shelter in designated facilities. The state of emergency will remain in effect for 30 days, with the possibility of extension if necessary.