The RM of Piney has issued an update on the wildfire burning near the communities of Sandilands and Woodridge.

While the RM remains under a State of Local Emergency and Council has issued a complete burn ban, the communities of Sandilands, Woodridge and St. Labre are not at risk.

The wildland fire is now contained, but still not under control. Current weather conditions are not favourable; the forecast includes high temperatures, low relative humidity and high winds resulting in extreme fire danger.

Crews continue to work on hot spots and heavy equipment is uncovering patches of ground fire.

Provincial fire attack crews remain on site and additional crews have arrived from out of province. The perimeter of the fire has been scanned by aerial thermal cameras to help identify hot spots requiring attention.

Two helicopters are dedicated to the fire to provide aerial support. Heavy equipment is working the fire lines.

The Sandilands Main Market Road remains closed and may open in the next couple of days if crews continue to make progress on extinguishing the fire. Fire crews continue to utilize this road for access to the burn area.

A complete burn ban for the RM of Piney and southern Manitoba is now in place. No burning of any solid fuel is permitted; this includes campfires, burn barrels and outdoor stoves. Only propane barbeques and propane fire pits are permitted.