A massive wildfire is burning out of control near Lac du Bonnet, a popular cottage area in southeastern Manitoba, Canada. This fire has forced nearly 1,000 people to leave their homes, caused heartbreaking losses, and spread thick smoke across the region. Here’s everything you need to know about the Lac du Bonnet wildfire, updated as of May 15, 2025, brought to you by Canadian Updates.
What’s Happening with the Lac du Bonnet Wildfire?
The wildfire started near Lac du Bonnet and grew quickly to cover 3,000 hectares (about 7,400 acres) by Wednesday, May 14, 2025. Hot, dry weather and strong winds made the fire spread fast, especially on Tuesday. Sadly, two people—a man and a woman—were found dead on Wednesday morning, likely trapped by the flames. Their names are not yet known, and officials say it could take days to confirm their identities.
The fire has damaged homes and buildings, especially in the Wendigo Beach area. Many cottages and properties have been destroyed, leaving families heartbroken. Thick smoke from the fire has also created unhealthy air quality in parts of Manitoba, including Winnipeg, prompting warnings for people to stay indoors.
Evacuations and Community Impact
Almost 1,000 people had to leave their homes because of the fire. The Rural Municipality of Lac du Bonnet set up an evacuation center in St-Georges to help those who had to flee. About 300 people have registered at the center so far. Nearby Whiteshell Provincial Park is closed due to the dangerous fire conditions, and Nopiming Provincial Park is also under evacuation orders. The loss of life and homes has hit the community hard. Reeve Loren Schinkel called it a “very dark day” for Lac du Bonnet but praised the hard work of firefighters and police.
In a small moment of hope, a kind person and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) worked together to save 120 baby chicks from the fire area, showing the community’s spirit even in tough times.
Firefighting Efforts and Challenges
Firefighters are working around the clock to battle the blaze. Water bombers are dropping water from the air, and ground crews are trying to protect homes and stop the fire from spreading further. The RCMP has set up three checkpoints along Highway 313 to keep people out of the danger zone, allowing only emergency vehicles. Manitoba Hydro, the province’s power company, evacuated workers from nearby power stations to keep them safe.
Cooler weather arrived on Wednesday, which helped a little, but strong winds from the north could push the fire across Highway 313, making things worse. Firefighters from British Columbia have also arrived to help, as Manitoba is dealing with several large wildfires at once.
Other Wildfires in Manitoba
The Lac du Bonnet fire is just one of 24 wildfires burning across Manitoba right now. Six of these fires are serious and need major firefighting efforts. A huge fire near Nopiming Provincial Park has grown to 100,000 hectares (247,000 acres), with dangerous fire behavior like collapsing smoke columns and even lightning created by the fire itself. Another fire near Libau, about 50 km west of Lac du Bonnet, covers 5,000 hectares. A fire near The Pas, burning since May 3, has reached 42,650 hectares. These fires show how serious the wildfire situation is in Manitoba this year.
Why Is This Happening?
Hot, dry weather and strong winds have made it easy for fires to start and spread. Some reports suggest that human activities, like burning cardboard, may have started some fires, even though fire bans are in place. Manitoba has banned backcountry travel in many areas to prevent new fires. The province is also facing an early and intense wildfire season, likely made worse by dry conditions.
What’s Being Done?
The Manitoba Wildfire Service is focusing on the Lac du Bonnet fire because it’s close to homes and communities. Kristin Hayward, a senior official with the service, said this fire is their top priority, even though other fires are behaving more dangerously. The province has brought in extra help from British Columbia to fight the fires. Premier Wab Kinew has promised support for people who have lost homes or been forced to leave.
Officials are also warning people not to fly drones near the fire area, as they can get in the way of firefighting planes. The RCMP says they will charge anyone caught using drones in the restricted zone.
How to Stay Safe and Informed
If you’re in Manitoba, especially near Lac du Bonnet, follow these tips:
- Stay away from the fire area and follow evacuation orders.
- Check air quality warnings and limit time outside if smoke is heavy.
- Listen to local news and official updates from the Manitoba Wildfire Service.
- Avoid starting any fires, as fire bans are in place across the province.
For the latest updates on the Lac du Bonnet wildfire and other Manitoba fire news, keep checking Canadian Updates. We’re here to keep you informed with clear, trustworthy information.
Our Thoughts Are with Lac du Bonnet
The Lac du Bonnet wildfire is a tragic event that has changed lives and damaged a beloved community. Canadian Updates sends our deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones, homes, or their sense of safety. We’re grateful for the brave firefighters, police, and volunteers working to protect people and stop the fire. Stay safe, Manitoba.
