Full Evacuation Ordered; Park Closures Expand Across Eastern Manitoba Ahead of Long Weekend
Winnipeg – Wildfire Update – As wildfire conditions reach critical levels in parts of the province, the Government of Manitoba has ordered a full closure and evacuation of Whiteshell Provincial Park, effective 9 a.m. Thursday, May 15. The order comes ahead of the Victoria Day long weekend, traditionally one of the busiest times for park visitation.
All public access to Whiteshell—including cottage subdivisions, campgrounds, commercial resorts, day-use areas, trails, and backcountry zones—will be restricted. All park users, including campers, commercial operators, and full-time residents, are required to exit the park no later than 1 p.m. on Thursday.
Registration Required for Full-Time Residents
Permanent residents must register in person with Manitoba Parks staff at one of the following reception centres:
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Whiteshell Community Club (PR 301 in Falcon Lake)
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Rennie Community Club (PTH 44 in Rennie)
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Eastman Snopals Garage (junction of PR 307 and Waterline Road)
Residents unable to register in person should call 204-340-6769. Cottagers and campers are not required to check in.
Additional Park Closures Widen Fire Zone
Several other parks remain closed under a State of Local Emergency, including:
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Nopiming Provincial Park
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Pinawa Dam, Poplar Bay, Wallace Lake, South Atikaki and Manigotagan River Provincial Parks
Evacuations are underway for areas within these parks, including Bird, Booster, Davidson, and Flanders lakes in south Nopiming, as well as Long and Beresford lakes in the north.
All trails, beaches, canoe routes, group-use areas, and commercial lodges within the affected parks are closed until further notice.
Impact on Thunder Bay-Area Travellers and Campers
Residents in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario often visit eastern Manitoba parks for backcountry paddling and family camping during long weekends. Travelers should cancel or reroute any Victoria Day plans involving these regions and stay updated on park conditions.
With extreme fire danger levels now persisting in multiple jurisdictions across the boreal region, caution is urged throughout Northwestern Ontario and the Manitoba borderlands.
Public Safety Reminder: No Drones Near Wildfires
Transport Canada prohibits drone use near wildfires, as they interfere with firefighting aircraft and ground crews. Any drone sightings should be reported immediately to local RCMP or 1-800-782-0076.
For updates on closures and fire restrictions in Manitoba’s parks, visit:
📍 www.manitobaparks.com
🔥 www.gov.mb.ca/wildfire
