Manitoba’s wildfire situation is ‘critical’: MKO Grand Chief

MKO Grand Chief Garrison Settee discusses renewed wildfire activity and what it means for evacuations and preparedness in affected communities.

Manitoba’s wildfire situation is being described as a crisis as communities are being forced to re-evacuate due to potential risks.

“The situation remains critical and our communities are still under threat with the lifting of the province-wide state of emergency,” said Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) Grand Chief Garrison Settee.

“It continues to be a crisis and we’re treating it as a crisis every day.”

Settee’s words come as the province deals with 81 active wildfires.

CTV News previously reported that wildfire threats have prompted a state of local emergency in Thompson, as well as evacuations in Lynn Lake and Leaf Rapids. Officials also confirmed seven homes were destroyed in Tataskweyak Cree Nation.

Settee said it’s hard for people to have to evacuate for a second time, describing it as a “harrowing experience.”

He added the evacuation process is especially tough on elders and those with health conditions or mobility issues.

“I know that a lot of them don’t want to go through this experience again because it has been very difficult,” he said.

“Even the process of registration, finding accommodations, being allocated to accommodational shelters is not a very good experience.”

Settee said he is working with other leaders to ensure everyone’s safety.

“It’s not an ideal situation to be displaced from your community, but I know that the leaders and the chiefs are trying, so just be patient.”

• With files from CTV’s Rachel Lagacé.