Wildfires trigger state of emergency in northeastern Manitoba community [Video]

A First Nation in northeastern Manitoba has declared a state of emergency due to wildfires in the region.

Red Sucker Lake Anisininew Nation (RSLAN), which is about 700 km northeast of Winnipeg, issued the notice early Saturday morning. Some vulnerable residents were evacuated from the community earlier this week because of wildfire smoke.

According to a news release, fires cut off the hydropower supply to the community – leaving Red Sucker Lake without a primary source of power. Community officials said more RSLAN members are being evacuated as a result.

“Our community is facing an unprecedented crisis,” RSLAN Chief Samuel Knott said in the release. “The loss of our hydropower supply amid these forest fires has left us vulnerable.”

The community is asking for a backup power generator to “offer a temporary solution and help us build resilience against future threats.”

Red Sucker Lake Anisininew Nation is also calling on …