Out-of-control wildfire near Flin Flon destroys 7 homes and cottages: officials

Nine properties have been destroyed in a still-active, out-of-control wildfire in northwestern Manitoba.

The massive fire near Flin Flon, which is about 37,000 acres, has destroyed one house, five cottages and two garages in Sourdough Bay. It also destroyed a home in Twin Lakes.

All property owners have been notified, the Manitoba government said in its latest fire bulletin.

“Aerial crews also identified a small number of structures believed to be damaged in other fire-affected areas, which will be confirmed by ground crews in the coming weeks, as well as any other structural damage,” the province added.

Officials say “favorable weather conditions” are continuing to battle the 12-day-old wildfire. Those conditions forced the evacuation of 675 people in and around Cranberry Portage, Sourdough Lake and Twin Lake last weekend. return home.

“The fire line closest to Cranberry Portage is under control and crews continue to make good progress in other areas,” the official said.

The Manitoba government says emergency financial support is available to residents of Cranberry Portage and surrounding communities who have been forced to flee their homes.

Assistance is available to those who have been in mandatory evacuation due to wildfires for seven or more days. Eligible adults receive $200 and eligible children receive $100.

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WATCH: Cranberry Portage residents return home after massive wildfire

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Prime Minister Wab Kinew said the lump sum would “help ensure families don't have to worry about getting food or paying bills during these difficult times”.

When an evacuation lasts more than three days, it is in addition to the support provided by Emergency Social Services, including covering direct accommodation costs and helping with food and transport costs.

The province says the application will be made available to individuals and families who are registered with an ESS drop-in center and meet the eligibility criteria.

About 200 Manitoba firefighters are being assisted by 40 firefighters from Ontario, 21 from Quebec, 20 from New Brunswick and five from Parks Canada.

– With Canadian Press files