Northwest Fire Region
Time of Report: 17:23 CDT, August 20, 2024
New Fire Discoveries:
Four new wildfires were identified in the Northwest Region by late afternoon on August 20, with additional reports still pending confirmation.
- Sioux Lookout 33 (SLK033): A 2.5-hectare fire located near Smithson Lake, approximately 54 kilometers south of Wunnimun Lake First Nation. This fire is currently being observed.
- Sioux Lookout 32 (SLK032): Located near the Pineimuta River, about 68 kilometers south of Wunnimun Lake First Nation. This 1.0-hectare fire is also under observation.
- Red Lake 37 (RED037): This fire was found within the remote community of Poplar Hill First Nation and has been extinguished at 0.1 hectares.
- Red Lake 36 (RED036): A 2.0-hectare fire located on the edge of Sandy Lake First Nation, approximately 3.5 kilometers from the community. This fire remains not under control.
Current Fire Status:
As of this update, there are 32 active fires in the Northwest Region. Of these, 1 fire is not under control, 1 is under control, and 30 are being observed.
Fire Hazard Conditions:
The wildland fire hazard is primarily high throughout the Northwest Region, with areas of extreme hazard in the far north. A band of moderate hazard stretches across the southern part of the region, affecting areas including Nipigon, Thunder Bay, Dryden, Fort Frances, and Kenora, which are experiencing a mix of moderate to high hazard conditions.
For detailed information on active fires and fire hazards in your area, visit our Interactive Map.
Outdoor Burning Regulations:
Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services reminds the public to exercise caution during any outdoor burning. Consider composting yard waste and woody debris or using local landfills instead of burning. If burning is necessary, please adhere to Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations.
Fires should only be ignited two hours before sunset and must be extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise. Always have adequate tools and water on hand to control the fire. For more details, consult the full set of Outdoor Burning Regulations.
Waterbomber Safety:
If you see waterbombers approaching a body of water, move close to the shore to allow them to scoop water safely. Waterbombers will not scoop if watercraft are in their way. Stay clear and stay safe.
Reporting Wildfires:
- North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 310-FIRE.
- South of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 9-1-1.
