Thunder Bay – September 23, 2024 – One new wildfire has been confirmed in the Northwest Region as of early evening on September 23, 2024. Fort Frances 16 (FOR016), located between Burke Lake and Sunday Lake at the southern end of Quetico Provincial Park, is burning approximately 4.2 kilometres north of the Ontario-Minnesota border. The fire spans 2.0 hectares and remains not under control.
Currently, there are 13 active wildfires in the Northwest Region. Of these, 12 are being monitored, while one remains uncontrolled. Over the past 24 hours, eight fires in the Sioux Lookout Fire Management Sector have been declared extinguished.
The wildfire hazard varies across the region, ranging from low to high, with moderate to high risk mainly along the southern border and the eastern side of the Northwest Region.
For up-to-date information on active fires and wildfire risks in your area, visit Ontario’s Interactive Fire Map.
Reminder: Follow Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations
As fall approaches, Aviation, Forest Fire, and Emergency Services reminds residents to exercise caution during outdoor burning. Alternatives such as composting or using local landfills for yard waste and woody debris are encouraged. If burning is necessary, follow Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations.
Fires must be started no earlier than two hours before sunset and fully extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise. Ensure you have enough water or tools to contain the fire. For a full list of rules, consult Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations.
For more tips on safe burning practices, visit How to Burn Grass and Woody Debris Safely on Ontario.ca.
Reporting Wildland Fires
To report a wildland fire north of the French and Mattawa rivers, call 310-FIRE. For fires located south of these rivers, dial 9-1-1.
