by Jonathan Scott
THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – There were three new fires in the region by the afternoon of July 24.
- Red Lake Fire Number 133 has been declared out at 0.1 hectares and was located near Papaonga Lake.
- Sioux Lookout Fire Number 82 is being held at 0.5 hectares and is located along the north shoreline of Savant Lake.
- Red Lake Fire Number 134 is currently classified as not under control at 0.1 hectares and is located near Trout Bay on Red Lake.
There are 78 active fires in the region, 69 of which are either under observation, being held or under control.
Kenora 71 Update
The fire has been remapped at 10,887 hectares following successful aerial ignition to bring the fire to natural boundaries. 160 firefighters have been committed to this fire and are making good progress following rain on the fire. The base camp at Minaki is operational to support operations on the fire. Heavy bucket helicopters continue supporting crews consolidating lines on the fire. Crews continue to maintain sprinkler systems on structures in the vicinity of the fire.
Air Quality Improves in Wabaseemoong
Following improved air quality, the 70-80 vulnerable evacuated persons (children, elders and those with respiratory problems) have returned to Wabaseemoong Independent Nation. Kenora Fire 71 is located approximately 23 kilometres north of the community and is not a direct threat to the community at this time.
Emergency Area Order for Kenora Fire 71
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry is advising the public of an Emergency Area Order for the area around Kenora Fire 71 to ensure public safety. As a result, the order restricts travel on Werner Lake Rd. as well as Crown land use and travel within the boundaries of the EAO.
Ontario Parks restricts access in Woodland Caribou Provincial Park
Several large fires in Woodland Caribou Park have necessitated some restrictions for backcountry travelers. Ontario Parks is restricting access to some canoe routes as well as access to a number of lakes. You can find more details here.
Fire hazard in the Northwest Region
The forest fire hazard is high in the southern portions of the region and Nipigon district. The northern portions of the region have a moderate forest fire hazard.
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
