Wildfires in northern Manitoba force First Nations to evacuate

First Nations in northern Manitoba are evacuating as winds drive nearby wildfires into their communities.

The Canadian Red Cross said it was supporting the evacuation of the Bunibonibbi Cree Nation, formerly known as Oxford House.

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The fire is estimated to be 10 kilometres south of the community and covers an area of ​​about 57 square kilometres.

Four other First Nations in the province remain under evacuation, with the Red Cross saying community members are currently staying in Winnipeg, Brandon and Thompson.

Federal Emergency Preparedness Minister Harjit Sajjan said he had approved the province’s request for assistance on behalf of the Bunibonib Cree Nation, and the Canadian Armed Forces has sent aircraft to support evacuations.

The Aboriginal tribe has a registered population of approximately 3,400 people and is located approximately 160 kilometres southeast of Thompson.