
‘A serious situation’: Manitoba evacuates provincial park, warns of deadly wildfires
LAC DU BONNET — Wildfires in eastern Manitoba prompted the government to evacuate and close another popular provincial park ahead of the long weekend, while many offered condolences to the family of a stranded couple found dead in the ashes.
Flags were lowered to half-mast at the legislature, where politicians held a moment of silence Thursday. Opposition Progressive Conservative legislature member Rick Wowchuk named the victims as Richard and Sue Nowell.
“I rise with a heavy heart and with deep care for the many families, communities and first responders facing what may be one of the most difficult wildfire seasons our province has ever experienced,” Wowchuk said.
Another Tory caucus member, Konrad Narth, told the house that the victims’ son and his girlfriend were able to escape but were injured.