TORONTO — Northwestern Ontario continues to battle severe forest fire conditions, with 117 active wildfires currently burning across the region, according to Ontario’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES).
Out of the total active fires, 23 remain classified as not under control, 3 are being held, 8 are under control, and the remaining fires are under active observation. Officials confirmed six new fire ignitions in the region on Monday evening alone.
Thunder Bay 36 Fire Spreads
The largest wildfire in the region, designated as Thunder Bay 36, continues to burn out of control. The mega-blaze has scorched approximately 314,000 hectares of forest land. Firefighting personnel, including additional crews deployed to the fire line, are utilizing water-bucketing helicopters and heavy ground equipment to build fire guards and douse active hotspots.
Evacuations and Travel Restrictions
Evacuation orders and alerts remain active across multiple affected sectors, particularly near Dryden, Thunder Bay, and Fort Frances. Authorities have reiterated that residents in areas under mandatory evacuation orders must leave immediately.
To facilitate emergency response operations, several roads in the impacted areas have been closed. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) urged the public to avoid non-essential travel to affected zones so that emergency response vehicles can move without hindrance.
Humanitarian Relief & FireSmart Guidelines
More than 2,835 residents from various affected communities have been evacuated and accommodated across eight designated reception centers. Government agencies and volunteer organizations are providing meals, medical care, and essential supplies to the displaced individuals.
Authorities are urging homeowners and property owners to follow FireSmart guidelines to protect homes and property from wildfire threats. Key safety measures include:
- Clearing dry grass, brush, and flammable debris from around residential structures.
- Ensuring proper and safe disposal of household waste.
- Maintaining clear access driveways for emergency vehicles.
