In northwestern Ontario, the latest report from Ontario’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) indicates that there are currently 95 active wildfires. Among these, 11 remain uncontrolled, five are being contained, 10 are under control, and the rest are under observation.
Two additional fires were reported in the northwest region on Thursday evening. Fort Frances 67 (FOR067) is situated northeast of McIntyre Lake, approximately 1 kilometer west of Marj Lake, covering 1.4 hectares and not yet under control. Nipigon 98 (NIP098) is located northeast of Clear Lake, around 14 kilometers north of Highway 17, with a size of 0.1 hectares and also not under control.
While the forest fire hazard is generally low to moderate across northwestern Ontario, significant areas of high hazard are present in the southwestern parts, including throughout the Thunder Bay and Kenora districts.
Ontario’s Minister of Natural Resources, Mike Harris, mentioned at a recent press briefing that the province has been managing a series of challenging fires in various regions, notably in the Quetico area, along the Canada-U.S. border, and in Wabakimi north of Lake Nipigon. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of over 150 Ontario fire crews, backed by nearly 100 aircraft, including helicopters and water bombers, working closely with partners across Canada and North America.
As the situation evolves, some partner resources are expected to return to their respective regions. Evacuations have impacted approximately 1,150 individuals across 14 communities, with ongoing coordination efforts with First Nation chiefs, community leaders, and emergency management partners.
Evacuation orders or alerts remain active for several areas near the fires, including Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, and Dryden 35. The Rinker Complex, which comprises these fires, remains a significant focus for firefighting operations. Additionally, the Atikokan Cluster, consisting of Fort Frances 13, 14, and 15, remains uncontrolled.
In northeastern Ontario, there are currently 44 active wildland fires, with varying levels of control. The forest fire danger ratings in this region range from low to moderate, with pockets of high hazard around Sault Ste. Marie and toward Greater Sudbury.
To bolster firefighting efforts, the ministry has allocated an extra $650 million for the acquisition of new waterbombers and helicopters. Moreover, the ministry has created 170 new permanent fire personnel positions, enhanced compensation packages, and will conduct a thorough review of its wildfire response for future enhancements.