Authorities in the Canadian province of Manitoba, which is currently hosting delegates at the Rendez-vous Canada trade show, have issued a state of emergency over wildfires in the north and east of the region.
People in the province – including delegates at the show, taking place in the region’s capital city, Winnipeg – received an alert on their mobile phones on Wednesday evening.
It said: “Due to rapidly spreading wildfires and extreme fire conditions, Manitoba has declared a Provincial State of Emergency.
“Multiple wildfires are threatening many communities and infrastructure. Evacuation orders and alerts are in effect in northern and eastern Manitoba. Air quality continues to be impacted.
“Follow all evacuation orders and emergency instructions from local authorities.
“Check www.manitoba511.ca before travelling to ensure road access remains available.
“No back country travel or fires are permitted at any time. Monitor local news and social media for up to date information.”
Around 17,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said. He added: “This is the largest evacuation Manitoba will have seen in most people’s living memory.”
Evacuation orders have been issued for the city of Flin Flon, Pimicikamak Cree Nation and the northern community of Cross Lake, also known as Mathias Colomb First Nation.
The majority of evacuees will go to Winnipeg and will be housed in community centres, football fields and arenas.
Rendez-vous Canada issued a message to guests saying: “Manitoba has issued a Provincial State of Emergency due to the wildfires in northern Manitoba. Please be assured that the City of Winnipeg is NOT impacted by current wildfires and is not required to evacuate.
“An evacuation order has been issued for the city of Flin Flon, located 826 km (513 miles) north of Winnipeg.
“There is no impact on the City of Winnipeg at this time.
“Our first priority is to ensure the health and safety of all RVC delegates. Our host committee continues to work with the Province of Manitoba to monitor the situation. Updates will be communicated as needed.
“You can find the latest information on the wildfires at Province of Manitoba | Wildfire Information.
“We acknowledge and thank the first responders working to evacuate the impacted communities and fighting the fires. Our thoughts are with the communities impacted by these events.”
