More than 200 people in northern Manitoba have been forced to relocate because of a forest fire.

The blaze has been burning about 180 kilometers from Thompson since Thursday.

Manitoba Conservation said it was started by lightning.

The evacuation of a Manitoba Hydro work camp affected about 120 employees.

About 100 people from the War Lake First Nation and the community of Ilford have also been forced from their homes due to heavy smoke.

They have been relocated to Gilliam.

Manitoba Conservation said ground crews and water bombers are being used to battle the fire.