The Manitoba government has issued a wildfire alert due to a significant increase in wildfires in the northwestern and eastern regions of the province. Over the past 24 hours, a system of dry lightning, a phenomenon where lightning occurs without rain, has resulted in several naturally started wildfires in the northwestern area.
As the long-range forecast predicts continued warm conditions across the province, the government is advising all Manitobans, especially those in The Pas and Flin Flon areas, to exercise extreme caution while in forested areas due to the prevailing drought conditions.
To date, all wildfires in the eastern region have been caused by human activity. As such, Manitobans are being reminded to carefully observe fire prevention measures. This includes checking and maintaining all equipment, such as vehicle tires, trailers, off-road vehicles, and any other equipment traveling along roadways and trails.
The government is urging residents to prevent wildfires by ensuring safety chains on trailers are well off the ground before driving, monitoring campfires, avoiding burning in windy conditions, and thoroughly extinguishing campfires before leaving. The recommended method is to soak the fire with water and dirt, stir with a stick or shovel, soak the fire again, and repeat the process until the air above is cool to the touch.
From April 1 to November 15 annually, provincial burning permits are required for outdoor fires set within the burn permit area. These permits can be acquired at provincial district offices. However, the government warns that provincial burn permits issued under the Wildfires Act may be cancelled or restricted at short notice if fire danger conditions necessitate. The province will not issue burning permits for areas where municipalities have already implemented burning restrictions.
For more information and to check for municipal burning restrictions, please visit the Manitoba government’s official website at https://gov.mb.ca/wildfire/burn_conditions.html.
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