‘We’ve got to get them out’: Dozens remain in Pimicikamak Cree Nation as wildfire nears

Sheena Garrick, evacuation coordinator for Pimicikamak Cree Nation shares how they’re protecting community members from wildfire threats through shelter.

More evacuees from Pimicikamak Cree Nation are set to land in Niagara Falls, Ont., as the First Nation works to get the last remaining people out of the wildfire-threatened community.

Chief David Monias posted an update to his Facebook page Tuesday morning, saying his team was working to round up about 45 people still in the community.

“We’ve got to get them out now. Things are getting kind of concerning,” he said.

The community is under an emergency evacuation order after a fire broke out May 20 near Pimicikamak Cree Nation.

The province’s latest fire bulletin released Monday measured that wildfire at about 3,300 hectares. It is classified as out of control.

According to Monias, a Hercules military plane had some trouble landing in the community Monday due to smoky, windy conditions.

The current plan is to bus remaining evacuees to Norway House Cree Nation while the road is still passable. From there, the rerouted military plane will fly people to safety.

He noted firefighters are still trying to keep the flames at bay, but there are concerns it could cut off the major roadway in and out of town.

“It’s right on our doorstep.”

More evacuees expected in Niagara Falls

Meanwhile, hundreds of previously evacuated Pimicikamak members landed over the weekend in Niagara Falls, with more expected Tuesday on flights out of Winnipeg.

According to evacuation coordinator Sheena Garrick, nearly three hotels are filled with evacuees.

While folks are feeling displaced and stressed, Garrick said they are being well taken care of.

“Nobody wanted to come out right away because of it being so far away,” she said in an interview with CTV Morning Live Winnipeg.

“But as soon as they start arriving here, they’re at ease. They’re comfortable. They’re well-rested. They’re fed.”

Meanwhile, hundreds of previously evacuated Pimicikamak members landed over the weekend in Niagara Falls, with more expected Tuesday on flights out of Winnipeg.

According to evacuation coordinator Sheena Garrick, nearly three hotels are filled with evacuees.

While folks are feeling displaced and stressed, Garrick said they are being well taken care of.

“Nobody wanted to come out right away because of it being so far away,” she said in an interview with CTV Morning Live Winnipeg.

“But as soon as they start arriving here, they’re at ease. They’re comfortable. They’re well-rested. They’re fed.”