THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – There were four new fires confirmed by the afternoon of Tuesday, May 22. Nipigon Fire Number 3 is out at 0.1 hectares and was located near the community of Nibinamik. Nipigon Fire Number 4 is not under control at 0.1 hectares.
Red Lake Fire Number 30 is not under control at 100 hectares and is located near Pascall Lake in the far north of Red Lake District. This fire crossed into Ontario from Manitoba. Crews are setting up sprinklers on structures in the vicinity of the fire.
Sioux Lookout Fire Number 8 is being observed at 5 hectares and is located on an island on Muskrat Dam Lake.
There were four fires confirmed by the end of the day on March 21. Two fires in Red Lake District, one fire in Sioux Lookout District and one fire in Thunder Bay District. These fires are either out or being held. Of note, Thunder Bay Fire Number 18 is being held at 7.2 hectares.
The forest fire hazard is high across most of the Northwest Region with an area of extreme hazard in the Red Lake District.
Members of the public are reminded that a Restricted Fire Zone remains in effect. Warm, sunny weather has increased the fire hazard across the Northwest Region over the last few days.
Smoke drift from large fires in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the northern United States may be detected today along the Minnesota and Manitoba Border Areas.
Restricted Fire Zone remains in place for Northwest Region
The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (OMNRF) has declared a Restricted Fire Zone in the Districts of Kenora, Fort Frances, Dryden and the southern portion of the Red Lake, Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout Districts and along the north shore of Lake Superior in the Nipigon District.
During a Restricted Fire Zone, the use of open fires – such as campfires, or burning of brush or debris, is restricted. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to $25,000 and three months in jail, as well as financial responsibility for the costs incurred in fighting a forest fire.
Portable gas or propane stoves are permitted for use for cooking or warmth, though they should be closely monitored. Portable charcoal BBQs and Hibachis are not permitted unless within 100 metres of a dwelling, or within an organized campground.
Commercial campground operators may allow their guests to enjoy campfires during a Restricted Fire Zone period provided they meet certain conditions.
The Restricted Fire Zone is a temporary measure to reduce the number of new human-caused wildfires.
To see a complete list of fires across the province click on our interactive map. You can also get the latest update on the condition of any fire by clicking the fire icon.
Fire numbers and online information:
- Forest Fire Reporting Number – 310-FIRE (3473)
- Twitter account
Report prepared by Jonathan Scott
