Strong Winds Fuel Fire Activity North of Thompson
High temperatures and gusty southern winds reaching up to 50 km/h contributed to increased wildfire activity north of Thompson on Tuesday. While a planned backburn between Mystery Lake and the Burntwood River was called off due to wind conditions, part of the fire crossed Provincial Road 280 to the northeast. As a result, the highway was closed at noon, though fireguards at the fire’s southwestern edge held.
Helicopters were grounded after 4:30 p.m. due to heavy smoke, and one more emergency crew joined the teams already on site. An additional helicopter was also added to support ongoing suppression efforts.
Crews continue to install value protection equipment around critical locations, including Mystery Mountain Winter Park, the airport fuel tank farm, the golf course, and industrial areas. Vegetation clearing is ongoing around Manitoba Hydro substations, airport infrastructure, and rail corridors. Bulldozers are expected to assist with further clearing beginning Wednesday.
With more high temperatures and westerly winds expected, the City of Thompson is reminding residents to complete the Preplanning Registration Form at www.thompson.ca to assist with transportation and evacuation planning, especially for those without vehicles or with special care needs.
