Northwest Region Fire Update
THUNDER BAY – Wildfire Update – As of early evening on Saturday, August 10, two new wildland fires have been confirmed in the Northwest Region. Currently, there are 27 active fires in the region, with 1 fire not yet under control and 26 being observed.
Fire Details: Dryden 11 and Fort Frances 8
- Dryden 11 (DRY011): This small 0.1-hectare fire was located about 33 kilometers north of Dryden, near Basen Lake. It has been successfully extinguished as of this afternoon.
- Fort Frances 8 (FOR008): This 1.2-hectare fire, located on Rookery Island in the southern part of Quetico Provincial Park, is currently not under control. Firefighting efforts are ongoing to contain and manage this blaze.
Fire Hazard Overview
The fire hazard across most of the Northwest Region is currently low to moderate. However, areas in the Far North, particularly around Opasquia Provincial Park and Big Trout Lake, are experiencing higher fire hazard levels. For detailed information on active fires and regional fire hazards, please refer to the Interactive Map.
Safety Reminders: Outdoor Burning Regulations
The Aviation, Forest Fire, and Emergency Services department reminds residents to exercise caution when performing any outdoor burning. Preferably, yard waste and woody debris should be composted or taken to local landfills. If burning is necessary, it must adhere to Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations.
Key guidelines include:
- Fires should be ignited no earlier than two hours before sunset and extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise.
- Ensure that adequate tools and water are available to manage the fire safely.
For a complete list of regulations, please consult the full set of Outdoor Burning Regulations.
Stay Clear of Waterbombers
If you encounter waterbombers approaching a lake or river, move close to the shore to allow them to scoop water safely. Waterbombers will not operate if watercraft pose a safety risk. Please stay clear and help fight forest fires safely.
Report a Wildland Fire
- To report a wildland fire north of the French and Mattawa rivers, call 310-FIRE.
- For fires south of these rivers, call 9-1-1.
Stay informed and practice fire safety as the region continues to manage the wildfire season.
