Six New Fires in Northwest
THUNDER BAY – The forest fire update shows six new fires in the Northwest. Deb MacLean from the Ministry of Natural Resources shares, “There were six confirmed fires in the Northwest Region between May 26 and the evening of May 29 in the districts of Fort Frances, Sioux Lookout and Thunder Bay. Two were lightning-caused, marking the transition in the region to both human and lightning-caused fires”.
The forest fire hazard continues to increase across the region with high to extreme hazards in the southern sectors. Moderate to strong winds are forecast for northern sectors ahead of a storm system moving in from the west, with possible thunderstorms tracking east later in the afternoon or evening of May 30. This may drop the fire hazard in
some areas of the region, but caution is needed as it may rebound after the rain passes.
At this time of the year, fire hazards are linked to dead grass and vegetation from the winter, before full green new growth has occurred. Fires can spread quickly and show significant fire behaviour in the dead vegetation.
A water bomber package that was dispatched on the weekend to northern Saskatchewan has returned to Ontario. On May 28, Ontario provided quick strike air support to Minnesota with two water bombers and a Birddog with an Air Attack Officer to help fight a forest fire
there.
Be FireSmart – Build a safe campfire. Keep your campfire small, have water nearby and never leave it unattended. Once you are finished, make sure to put it out.
For tips on how to be FireSmart and ensure your campfire is safe,
visit www.ontario.ca/fireprevention
Report forest fires in the Northwest Region and the Northeast Region (for areas north of the French and Mattawa Rivers) by dialing 310-FIRE (3473). Southern region forest fires can be reported by calling the local fire department.
