Flooding at Wellman Lake Provincial Park has forced evacuations, creating significant financial strain on local businesses, according to Cam McIntyre, owner of Wellman Lake Lodge.
Businesses face revenue losses
McIntyre said the evacuation has led to canceled bookings and lost revenue, with no clear timeline for when the park will reopen. The lodge, which relies heavily on summer tourism, is now facing an uncertain future.
“We’ve had to refund deposits and cancel reservations. It’s a huge blow to our income,” McIntyre said. The flooding has also affected other nearby businesses, including outfitters and campgrounds.
Evacuation details
The evacuation order was issued due to rising water levels from heavy rainfall. Park officials have not yet provided a date for re-entry. The Manitoba government is monitoring the situation and assessing damage.
Broader economic impact
Local tourism officials estimate that the evacuation could cost the region hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost tourism revenue. Many businesses are now seeking government assistance to cover losses.
