Charter flights and buses carrying numerous evacuees from the wildfires near Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation are set to reach Winnipeg on Monday. However, concerns have been raised about the living conditions at the shelter where most evacuees will be housed.
The evacuation order for residents of the Cree Nation, also known as Nelson House, was issued over the weekend due to poor air quality and the potential closure of the only access road to the community, located approximately 600 kilometers northwest of Winnipeg. By Sunday, more than 1,500 residents, including priority evacuees like children, elders, and individuals with underlying health issues, had left the community, according to Councillor Kim Linklater.
Given the limited availability of hotel rooms in Winnipeg, most evacuees are expected to be accommodated at Manitoba’s congregate shelter in the RBC Convention Centre. However, some evacuees have experienced delays in registering with the Red Cross and securing sleeping arrangements, prompting concerns about their well-being.
Lenora Spence, who arrived at the convention center with her son after being flown out from Nisichawayasihk, emphasized the challenges of caring for her son with special medical needs in a crowded facility. Another evacuee, Nichole Wood-Hart, expressed worries about the safety of her children in the shelter due to limited space and facilities.
Nisichawayasihk Deputy Chief Marcel Moody acknowledged the difficulties faced by the community, especially with a shortage of hotel accommodations and a growing number of evacuees waiting to leave. The Cree Nation is working to address the issues at the shelter while prioritizing the safety and well-being of its people.
Despite the wildfires burning near the community, efforts are being made to manage the situation, with concerns raised about the need for more resources and support. The Manitoba Wildfire Service continues to battle numerous active wildfires across the province, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
For the latest updates on wildfires and evacuation information, individuals are encouraged to refer to official sources such as the Canadian wildfire map and provincial fire bulletins. Evacuees in need of assistance can contact Manitoba 211 for support.