A state of emergency has been declared in Manitoba, Canada, due to severe wildfires. Over 17,000 people are being evacuated from the region. The province is experiencing one of its worst starts to the fire season in history.
Currently, there are 22 active fires burning across Manitoba. Nearly 200,000 hectares of forest have been affected. This is triple the total annual average for the region.
The evacuations include the town of Flin Flon, where 5,000 residents are preparing to flee. Military aviation is being deployed to assist residents in remote areas. Many evacuees are being transferred to Winnipeg.
Canada is experiencing 134 active fires across multiple provinces. Authorities predict an above-normal fire season for central and western Canada. Severe drought conditions are contributing to the increased fire risk.