Current Status of Wildfires
Thunder Bay – Wildland Fire Report – As of the latest update, the Northwest Region is contending with 32 active fires. Among these, 4 fires are being held, 7 are under control, 1 remains uncontrolled, and 20 are under observation. A significant development occurred yesterday evening, resulting in the confirmation of five new fires.
New Fire Incidents
- Red Lake 74: This 0.5-hectare fire, confirmed on Monday evening, was promptly addressed on the same day. It was situated on the northwest shore of Trout Lake Provincial Park, approximately 28 kilometers northeast of Balmertown.
- Sioux Lookout 96: Confirmed on Monday evening and responded to the following morning, this 0.1-hectare fire was located between Cat River and Root Bay, approximately 110 kilometers northeast of Sioux Lookout.
- Thunder Bay 44: Initially confirmed on Monday evening, this fire’s status was subsequently updated to “out” this afternoon. Spanning 0.2 hectares, it was located in the southeastern area of Wabakimi Provincial Park, about 58.5 kilometers west of the northern point of Lake Nipigon.
- Thunder Bay 45: Also confirmed on Monday evening, this 0.5-hectare fire is currently being held. It is situated about 39.7 kilometers west of Lake Nipigon and approximately 18 kilometers west of Highway 527.
- Thunder Bay 46: Confirmed on Monday evening and presently being held, this 0.2-hectare fire is located about 36.5 kilometers west of Lake Nipigon and approximately 23 kilometers west of Highway 527.
- Thunder Bay 47: Confirmed on Monday evening and not yet under control, this 1.5-hectare fire is positioned in central Wabakimi Provincial Park, approximately 63.5 kilometers northwest of Lake Nipigon.
Assessment of Fire Hazard
The wildland fire hazard within the Northwest Region exhibits a spectrum from moderate to high. Notable conditions include an area of extreme fire hazard around Kenora and an area of low fire hazard between Thunder Bay and Quetico Provincial Park. Comprehensive fire hazard insights for your specific area can be acquired through our Interactive Map.
Monitoring Smoke Patterns
Sections of the Northwest Region may experience smoke drift from Western Canada. Individuals interested in tracking smoke forecasts can access information on FireSmoke.ca, including current and forecasted smoke conditions. Concerns regarding potential health impacts due to smoke exposure can be addressed through Telehealth Ontario at 811.
Promoting Firefighting Safety
Maintaining a safe distance from waterbombers involved in firefighting operations is vital. When waterbombers approach bodies of water, positioning near the shore facilitates safe scooping. To ensure safety, waterbombers avoid collecting water from lakes or rivers when nearby watercraft pose safety hazards.
Upholding a Drone-Free Zone
Operating drones near forest fires is both perilous and illegal. Doing so jeopardizes the lives of pilots, firefighters, and emergency personnel. We strongly discourage flying drones in proximity to forest fire incidents.
Immediate Reporting of Wildland Fires
To promptly report wildland fires located north of the French and Mattawa rivers, please utilize the dedicated hotline at 310-FIRE. For forest fires situated south of these rivers, dial 911.
