Flin Flon, Lynn Lake lifting wildfire evacuation orders

Lynn Lake and Flin Flon are in the process of lifting wildfire evacuation orders.

Evacuation orders are lifting in a pair of Manitoba communities that saw thousands flee due to wildfires.

According to a post on the Lynn Lake Facebook page, residents can return as of 8 a.m. on Friday, with buses being arranged for those in need of transportation.

Lynn Lake remains under an evacuation alert, which means residents will need to stay prepared to leave again if fire conditions worsen.

The post noted the roadblock at the Marcel Colomb First Nation turnoff has been removed to allow unrestricted access to the community.

The wildfire near Lynn Lake remains out of control and is estimated to be about 71,000 hectares. Hot spots remain and fire suppression efforts are ongoing. The risk of smoke and falling ash continues.

Flin Flon residents to soon return

The mandatory evacuation order in Flin Flon is expected to end at 9 a.m. on June 25 – barring any unexpected fire behaviour. Certain businesses, including hardware stores, restaurants and automotive services, will be allowed to return on Saturday to prepare for re-entry.

According to an announcement from Mayor Alison Dallas-Funk, critical services are ready to resume, though the grocery stores may have limited supplies.

Dallas-Funk urges those returning to drive carefully and bring essentials. She added the community will not have full health services in place. Those who need x-rays, dialysis, or other advanced services are encouraged to consider delaying their return.

Those with questions can message The City of Flin Flon Facebook page or email [e-mail].