The Municipality of Red Lake continues to work on evacuating the community as a forest fire rages out of control.
The fire sparked Monday afternoon about two kilometres northeast of Madsen and moved towards Harry’s Corner.
The last report has the fire at 420 hectares in size.
The evacuation started late last night with the removal of vulnerable residents and those able to leave immediately.
A huge convey of vehicles left the community and the municipality is working with Emergency Management Ontario to safely transport additional residents out of the community today through air.
The City of Dryden and Ear Falls are among the communities hosting evacuees.
Red Lake is also working with Kenora, Ignace and Fort Frances as other possible evacuation sites.
A number of businesses and camps have opened their doors to help those who have been forced from their home.
Red Lake officials say they are working closely with the province and Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry on the fire situation.
Ministry firefighters and volunteer firefighters continue to battle the blaze.
Those still in the community are asked to check in with their friends, family and neighbours to ensure everyone is safe.
At last report five water bombers were dispatched to help suppression efforts.
Highway 618 remains closed to traffic.
Highway 105 north at Birch Drive is also closed and traffic control is in place.
Motorists are experience some delays due to the fire.
Enbridge Gas says service in Red Lake, Balmertown and Cochenour has been interrupted as a safety precaution.
(Photo Credit: Nick Zook)
Here a video clip from this morning in Red Lake. pic.twitter.com/BzNxpxTTUG
— Sol Mamakwa MPP (@solmamakwa) August 11, 2020
