A northern Manitoba community has declared a state of emergency after a fire destroyed its only grocery store, band office, radio station and post office.

Chief Jeffrey Napaokesik of Shamattawa First Nation says his community has been devastated by Thursday’s blaze.
Fortunately, there were no injuries.

He says the fire started in the band office as staff were away at a funeral several kilometres away.

Napaokesik says he is in contact with Indigenous and Northern Development Canada and the North West Company.

The community will set up an emergency store in a separate location, but according to Napaokesik, supplies will be scarce for the 1,500 people living on the reserve.

“There will be no supply for groceries, baby formula, and water,” says Napaokesik.

The only way to reach the remote community is by plane.

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