Infrared Scans Reveal New Hot Spots as Thompson Fire Complex Response Continues
Crews working on the Thompson Complex fires—Fires NO050, NO061, and NO062—remain on high alert as new infrared scanning data has identified multiple areas of concern. According to the Manitoba Wildfire Service, the scans show fresh hot spots along the southern and eastern edges of Fire NO061, as well as in the middle and southwest corner of the western flank.
With all three fires still classified as “out of control,” the City of Thompson Council is expected to vote to extend its State of Local Emergency for another 30 days. The original declaration has been in effect since July 7. The Local Government District of Mystery Lake will also seek to renew its own emergency declaration.
Two firefighting crews continued work on Fire NO061’s southern flank yesterday, with a third crew expected to join today. Crews from Quebec are addressing hot spots along bulldozer guards on both sides of Provincial Road 280, as well as new hot spots on the western edge identified in the latest infrared scans.
Value protection sprinklers and other equipment remain in place and will continue to be maintained in case further deployment is needed.
Meanwhile, temperatures in Thompson reached 22°C today and are forecast to rise to 30°C by Friday. Relative humidity is expected to drop under clear skies, increasing the risk of fire spread. Winds are forecast to shift from the northwest to the southwest tomorrow.
Environment Canada has issued another air quality warning for the northern region. While smoke was light over Thompson this morning, officials say heavier smoke may drift into the area later in the day.
The Manitoba Wildfire Service is referring to the three fires as the “Thompson Complex,” with coordinated management efforts now underway to contain the perimeter and prevent further spread.
