No new wildfires in the Northwest Region; progress made on Nipigon 36. High fire hazard persists in northern areas

Northwest Region – August 23, 2024 – 19:04 CDT

NORTHWEST REGION – As of late afternoon on August 23, no new wildfires have been confirmed in the Northwest Region.

Current Fire Status:
There are currently 32 active fires in the region:

• 1 fire is not under control
• 1 fire is being held
• 30 fires are being observed

Fire of Note:

• Nipigon 36: Significant progress has been made on this 46-hectare fire, which started on August 20, approximately 3.5 kilometres south of Kasabonika Lake First Nation. Two FireRanger crews, supported by a helicopter, have been working to establish hoselines around the fire’s perimeter, taking advantage of low fire activity in recent days. Despite this progress, the fire remains not under control.

Fire Hazard Levels:
The wildland fire hazard remains high to extreme across much of the Northwest Region, particularly in the northern areas of the Sioux Lookout and Nipigon fire management sectors. However, the southern half of the region is experiencing moderate to low hazard levels. An incoming weather system may help reduce the fire hazard along the western edge of the region if the anticipated rainfall materializes.

For detailed information on active fires and fire hazards in your area, please consult our Interactive Map.

Outdoor Burning Regulations Reminder:
Aviation, Forest Fire, and Emergency Services remind the public to exercise caution when conducting outdoor burns. Consider composting or using local landfills to dispose of yard waste and woody debris. If burning is necessary, follow Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations:

• Fires must be ignited no sooner than two hours before sunset and extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise.
• Always have adequate tools and water on hand to control the fire.

For the full set of Outdoor Burning Regulations, please visit the Ontario government website.

Safety Reminder: Stay Clear of Waterbombers
When waterbombers approach a body of water, move close to the shore to allow them to scoop water safely. Waterbombers will not scoop if watercraft pose a hazard.

Reporting Wildland Fires:

• To report a wildland fire north of the French and Mattawa rivers, dial 310-FIRE.
• For fires south of these rivers, call 9-1-1.