In northwestern Ontario, the latest update from Ontario’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) reports 84 active wildfires. Of these, seven are uncontrolled, six are contained, nine are under control, and the remainder are being monitored. As of the most recent update on Sunday, no new fires have been confirmed in the region since Friday. Cooler temperatures and rainfall on Saturday were anticipated to assist in reducing the intensity of significant fires.
The forest fire hazard in northwestern Ontario ranges from low to moderate. However, areas with high hazard levels include the southwest corner near Fort Frances, north of Lake Nipigon, and around Marten Falls First Nation. Notable fires in the region include the Rinker Complex, consisting of Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, and Dryden 35, which are among the largest ongoing firefighting operations. The Atikokan Cluster, comprising Fort Frances 13, 14, and 15, also continues to be monitored closely.
Approximately 829 individuals remain displaced due to the wildfires, with about 2,000 evacuees having returned home. The ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response has been actively coordinating with various stakeholders to manage the situation effectively.
Evacuation alerts are in place for Fort Frances 39 and Minnesota’s “Thumb Fire,” urging residents in the vicinity to be prepared to evacuate promptly if necessary. Highway closures are in effect in specific areas due to wildfire activity, and measures have been taken to ensure the safety of residents and emergency responders.
In northeastern Ontario, two new fires were confirmed on Sunday evening, with varying levels of containment. Forest fire danger ratings are predominantly low in the region, with some pockets of moderate and high risk.
To combat the wildfires, the ministry has allocated additional resources, including funds for new waterbombers and helicopters, increased personnel, and enhanced compensation for firefighting staff. Plans for an after-action review of the wildfire response are underway to enhance future preparedness and response strategies.
