A northern Manitoba community was evacuated over the weekend after a pair of wildfires grew out of control.

The fire near Flin Flon grew to over 35,000 hectares and moved within one kilometre of Cranberry Portage, resulting in the evacuation of people living in the area. Meanwhile, surrounding communities have also been put on evacuation notice.

Residents of Cranberry Portage began evacuating Saturday night and were taken to The Pas where they have been put in touch with Emergency Social Services. 

The evacuation has affected over 500 residents and could affect more if the fire grows.

Meanwhile, a second fire near the Pas has grown to 1500 hectares, and crews are working to protect the hydro lines between The Pas and Cranberry Portage.

Air tankers from Manitoba and Saskatchewan have been working around the clock and additional crews from Ontario are expected to arrive in a day or two.

The province says the extreme fire behaviour in the area is due to drought conditions and high winds.