First Nations in Manitoba evacuated due to nearby wildfires, one home destroyed

A First Nation in Manitoba’s Interlake region says one home burned down and several garages and outbuildings have been destroyed due to a nearby wildfire. Peguis First Nation, the largest First Nation in the province located about two hours north of Winnipeg, declared a state of emergency early Sunday evening as nearby wildfires spread over the weekend because of high winds, hot temperatures and dry conditions. In a social media post this morning, Peguis says 350 evacuees were sent out of the community to Selkirk and Winnipeg due to heavy smoke, dangerous conditions and health risks. The post says one family lost their home on Sunday and the total damage of other structure losses is still being assessed. It says the main wildfire is under control, but small fires continue to burn and crews remain active in the area to monitor hot spots and prevent flare-ups. An emergency command centre has been set up at a hotel near the Winnipeg airport to facilitate communications with local, provincial and federal agencies. Other communities under a state of emergency include Pinaymootang First Nation and Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation. Nine active fires are burning in Manitoba. Continue Reading