Evacuation orders remain in effect in parts of the Rural Municipality of Lac du Bonnet as wildfire suppression efforts continue in eastern Manitoba, according to several media outlets.
While crews have made progress in containing the fire that destroyed 28 homes and cottages and resulted in two fatalities earlier this week, officials say the situation remains volatile.
Recent rainfall has aided firefighting efforts, and the province has allowed some residents to return to areas such as Urban Road and parts of Wendigo Road.
Over 100 residents have now been able to go back to their homes following nearly a week of displacement. However, the fire, which has burned approximately 4,000 hectares, is still classified as out of control, according to the Manitoba Wildfire Service.
The municipality confirmed Saturday that a state of local emergency remains in place, and evacuation orders for other areas have not been lifted. “Our top priority remains the safety of our residents, which is why the mandatory evacuation remains in place,” Lac du Bonnet Emergency Management posted.
Officials noted that re-entry will only be permitted once the wildfire is under control and resident safety can be assured. “We will not risk allowing residents to return back into homes that are adjacent to the fire and have a second evacuation,” the municipality stated.
Infrastructure damage remains significant. More than 200 Manitoba Hydro poles were destroyed, and damaged roads are slowing down utility repair efforts. Some areas remain without power, and security has been increased to limit access to high-risk zones.
The fire continues to present challenges in areas such as Lee River Road, where smouldering peat moss is contributing to persistent hotspots. Fire crews remain active in these regions to prevent flare-ups and manage the spread risk.
Officials said they are not in a position to assess individual properties or facilitate resident visits to view damage. With over 1,000 households displaced, the municipality said resources are concentrated on fire containment and public safety. “We cannot take photos of individual properties,” the post read. “When the evacuation order is lifted, you will be able to assess your property and report any damage to your insurance company.”
The province is monitoring approximately 20 wildfires across Manitoba, which has led to the closure of some national parks.
