Massive Fire Continues To Burn Near Red Lake

A large forest fire near Red Lake has become a priority for the Ministry of Natural Resources.
The lightning-caused blaze has scorched more than 11,000 hectares and is listed as not under control.
The fire is 50-kilometres northwest of Red Lake and 30-kilometres northeast of Pikangikum First Nation, but neither community is currently at risk.
The fire has spread into the northern portion of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.
34 fire ranger crews, 7 helicopters and water bombers continue to attack the blaze.
Information Officer Heather Pridham says the fighting the fire is a challenge as its burning in an area with significant blowdown damage.
Pridham notes the blowdown has made it time consuming to manoeuver through.
Pridham adds the dry timber increases the fire behaviour.