In northwestern Ontario, Ontario’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) reported 110 active wildfires as of the latest update on Tuesday night. Out of these, 11 are uncontrolled, six are contained, 10 are under control, and the rest are under observation.
Five new fires were confirmed in the northwest region on Tuesday evening:
– Thunder Bay 79 (THU079): Located near Dog Lake, approximately 18 kilometers west of Highway 527. The fire covers 0.1 hectare and is under control.
– Thunder Bay 80 (THU080): Situated south of Athelstane Lake, around 24 kilometers west of Highway 17. The fire spans 0.1 hectare and is not under control.
– Fort Frances 65 (FOR065): Positioned in Quetico Park near Baird Lake, roughly three kilometers southeast of McDougall Lake. The fire covers 0.3 hectares and is being held.
– Kenora 29 (KEN029): Located south of Moth Lake, about two kilometers south of Highway 17. The fire spans 1.5 hectares and is not under control.
– Dryden 62 (DRY062): Positioned on an island on Sturgeon Lake, near East Bay. The fire covers 0.1 hectare and is under control.
While the forest fire hazard is mainly low to moderate in northwestern Ontario, there are notable areas of high hazard in the southwestern parts, particularly in the Thunder Bay and Kenora districts.
Minister of Natural Resources Mike Harris mentioned the challenges posed by complex fires in various areas over the past month. Efforts by over 150 Ontario fire crews, supported by nearly 100 aircraft, including helicopters and water bombers, are focused on ensuring public safety.
Approximately 1,150 individuals remain displaced, with evacuation orders and alerts in place for several communities. Continuous coordination and support efforts are ongoing to manage the situation effectively.
In the northeastern region, there are 46 active wildland fires, with forest fire danger ratings primarily low and moderate. The ministry is allocating additional resources, including new aircraft and personnel, to enhance wildfire suppression efforts.
Highway closures and Canada Post service alerts are in effect in several areas affected by the wildfires. Authorities are urging the public to follow evacuation orders, stay informed through official channels, and cooperate with emergency responders.
Efforts are underway to provide aid and relief to affected communities, with various organizations and agencies collaborating to support evacuees and frontline responders. A comprehensive review of the wildfire response will guide future planning and improvements in handling such situations.