| Comments | Abnormally dry conditions had been recorded throughout parts of southern Manitoba in 2017 and into 2018. By the end of March, dry conditions began to extend into northern Manitoba, and in May these conditions existed across nearly the entire province. Several wildfires were reported across northern Manitoba in May. Around May 21st, a human-caused fire was initiated near the Indigenous communities of Little Grand Rapids First Nation and Pauingassi First Nation that led to an evacuation - roughly 1,790 residents were evacuated with assistance from the Canadian Armed Forces as well as other Government of Canada departments. The Red Cross also helped in the effort. Residents were able to return home in late June. Throughout the fire season, communities across Manitoba threatened by fire were evacuated including Sapotaweyak Cree Nation and Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation, Black Sturgeon Falls, and Shoal River. Although the 2017 fire season in Manitoba was only slightly above average, over 180 firefighters from Ontario and resources from Quebec were needed in the fire efforts. |