Evacuation ordered for residents of Red Lake, Ont. as firefighters battle growing blaze

Residents of Red Lake, Ont. wereaskedto evacuate the municipality "as soon as possible" late on Monday evening, as a "forest fire in the area has now posed a risk for all community members."

The municipality stated in a media release that "all vulnerable populations are asked to leave the community immediately."

The release added the municipality is coordinating air transportation with Emergency Management Ontario for vulnerable populations that are unable to leave on Monday night.

The municipality's statement said it is in the process of arranging overnight accommodations for vulnerable populations, which include those lacking means of transportation or supports, as well as those with breathing difficulties or accessibility concerns. It asked all other residentsto stop in at the Township of Ear Falls Office or to register at the Dryden arena/recreation centre, where temporary shelter is available.

The municipality said it is important for residents to register "to ensure we can assist you while you are out of the community."

Earlier on Monday evening, the Red Lake 49 forest fire had resulted in a community advisory and a road closure on Highway 618 to east and west bound traffic.

At the time, the blaze was reported to beapproximately five hectares in size, withfive water bombers active in the area to assist with the efforts.

The Red Lake Neighbourhood Watch Facebook group hadencouraged residents to prepare an evacuation bag in case an evacuationwascalled, and said the Red Lake Airport has been closed to inbound and outbound traffic.

At the time of the post, theneighbourhood watch group added that the firehad "grownmassively within the last hour."

The Municipality of Red Lake is providing updates as they become available onitsFacebook page.