THUNDER BAY – Mother Nature helped fire fighters in parts of Northwestern Ontario over the weekend. Heavy rain was recorded throughout the Kenora, Dryden, Fort Frances, and the lower portion of the Thunder Bay District on July 6. This recent precipitation has reduced the forest fire hazard for these areas to low and moderate. This also includes the north shore of Lake Superior. However, the more northern districts of Red Lake, Sioux lookout and Nipigon did not receive any rain on July 6. The forest fire hazard for these districts remains high and an increase in fire activity is continuous.
By the time this report was prepared on July 7 there were two new fires reported. Nipigon 51 is estimated to be 300.0ha. Sioux Lookout 41 is estimated to be 10.0ha in size. Both fires were caused by lightning and both fires will be monitored because of their remote and isolated locations.
Forest Fire Hazard in South of Region Reduced
Thunder Bay and Kenora both have one fire each at this time. Nipigon and Sioux Lookout both have fourteen active fires at this time while Red Lake has fifteen active fires.
At this point in time there are no communities directly threatened by these active forest fires. Values protection has been established on some remote properties and structures and will remain in place until such time it is safe to remove this equipment.
Red Lake 31 – Not Under Control
Red Lake 31 is currently a fire of note in the Northwest Region. This lightning-caused fire was confirmed in the early morning of July 3. It is estimated to be 8100.0ha in size and is listed as Not Under Control at this time. Red Lake 31 received aggressive air attack on July 7 from four CL-415 waterbombers.
Red Lake 31 is located approximately 35km west of Bak Lake off of the Nungesser Road. It is approximately 15km from the northeast border of Woodland Caribou Provincial Park.
There are 19 FireRanger Crews assigned to this fire and ten Type 2 Sustained Attack Crews are on their way to this fire to help. There are four helicopters assigned to this fire. FireRangers continue to make progress on the east flank of the Red Lake 31, consolidating hoseline and establishing fuel breaks to prevent the further spread of this fire.
To ensure public safety, be very cautious with any open flame and make sure your campfire is dead-out before leaving! Report Forest Fires by calling 310-FIRE (3473)
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