Canada: Emergency crews responding to a wildfire in eastern Manitoba as of early Aug. 1

Emergency crews are responding to a wildfire burning south of God's Lake in eastern Manitoba as of early Aug. 1. The wildfire was detected July 19 and remains out of control. The fire has spread rapidly in recent days and has grown to around 24,320 hectares (60.096 acres) in size. Authorities have evacuated hundreds of residents of God’s Lake First Nation, Manto Sipi Cree Nation, Wasagamack First Nation, and Red Sucker Lake First Nation due to the threat of the fire and smoke in the region. Officials have not given any indication of when evacuated residents may be able to return home. Further wildfire growth is possible over the coming hours and days.

The wildfire may cause localized transport disruptions in the region. The status of nearby roads will likely change over the coming hours and days; authorities could close routes within the wildfire complex and evacuate additional communities due to fire activity and the requirements of response operations. The return of residents could disrupt traffic flows after authorities lift evacuation orders. Low visibility from smoke and possible ashfall could contribute to traffic delays and congestion in the region.