Leaf Rapids lifts months-long evacuation order

Smoky skies in Leaf Rapids on July 23, 2025. (Manitoba Government)

A northern Manitoba town has lifted its evacuation order more than two months after community members were forced to leave due to the threat of wildfires.

As of Monday, residents of Leaf Rapids can begin to return to the community.

According to a Facebook post by the town, those who are arranging their own return via private transportation are welcome back any time. Those who are returning by bus should expect to be home by Tuesday.

Supports and resources, including cleaning kits and advice on dealing with spoiled food, can be accessed in the town centre.

The community, located about 750 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg, was forced to evacuate on July 8 after a wildfire jumped from the Churchill River and entered the town. One home and several abandoned buildings were destroyed.