A lightning strike ignited a wildfire in the Netley-Libau Marsh on Sunday evening, prompting an emergency response from multiple fire departments and provincial support.
The East Selkirk Fire Department was first on scene but was unable to access the marshland blaze with equipment. Crews monitored the situation overnight.
By Monday morning, the fire crossed into nearby grasslands and rapidly intensified. East Beaches and Carol fire departments were called in for mutual aid.
St. Clements chief administrative officer Deepak Joshi said the fire was burning near roads 32 East and 91 North. Four property owners in the area were advised to evacuate their homes.
“We are actively monitoring the situation as it progresses, with water bombers on the way and helicopters from the Province of Manitoba on scene,” said Joshi.
He added that the fire poses a risk of spreading to the nearby Brokenhead and Scanterbury communities.
No injuries had been reported as of press time. The cause of the fire was confirmed to be lightning.
