Latest Fire Activity
THUNDER BAY – Four new wildland fires were confirmed in the Northwest Region by early evening on August 6, with one additional fire reported after yesterday’s update:
- Kenora 15 (KEN015): This 0.5-hectare fire, located 15.5 km southwest of Minaki, is under control. No community or infrastructure impacts are expected.
- Red Lake 34 (RED034): A 0.3-hectare fire, located 7 km south-southwest of Sandy Lake on an island in Sandborn Bay. This fire is not yet under control, and one FireRanger crew, along with helitack, has been deployed for suppression efforts.
- Nipigon 29 (NIP029): Spanning 50 hectares, this fire near Shibogama Lake, 29.8 km east of Kasabonika Island, is currently being observed.
- Kenora 16 (KEN016): This 0.5-hectare fire, located 20.7 km north-northwest of Minaki, remains uncontrolled. Aerial suppression was conducted today, with positive results. No threats to communities or infrastructure have been reported.
Regional Fire Status
There are currently 39 active fires in the Northwest Region, each at varying levels of control:
- 4 under control
- 4 being held
- 5 not under control
- 26 being observed
Fire Hazard Levels
The fire hazard in the Northwest Region is primarily high, with extreme conditions reported between the Manitoba border and Trout Lake, Slate Falls Nation Reserve, Thunder Bay, and Neebing. Moderate hazard pockets exist around Peawanuck, Ogoki River Provincial Park, Pantagruel Creek Provincial Park, and along the southwestern border from Highway 17 to the U.S. border.
Safety Reminders
- Outdoor Burning Regulations: Follow Ontario’s guidelines strictly. Fires must only be ignited within two hours before sunset and extinguished within two hours after sunrise. Always ensure you have sufficient tools and water to manage the fire safely.
- Waterbomber Safety: If a waterbomber approaches a lake or river, move close to shore to allow safe water scooping.
Reporting Wildfires
- North of French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 310-FIRE.
- South of these rivers: Dial 9-1-1.
