THUNDER BAY & SUDBURY – The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services is monitoring several active wildfires across Northern Ontario, with both the Northeast and Northwest regions reporting new fire activity. With the fire hazard ranging from high to extreme in some areas, officials are urging the public to use extreme caution with any outdoor burning.
🔥 Northeast Fire Region Update (as of 6:06 p.m. EDT – May 5, 2025)
There are currently 2 active wildland fires in the Northeast Region, with 3 new fires confirmed today:
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Sudbury 2 (SUD002) – A 2.6-hectare fire, located about 7 km south of Markstay and 1.5 km north of Nepewassi Lake. This fire has been declared out.
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Cochrane 1 (COC001) – A 1.5-hectare fire discovered 7 km west of Cochrane and 1.5 km south of Hwy 11. The fire is currently being held.
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Sudbury 3 (SUD003) – This 0.7-hectare fire is located approximately 4 km northwest of Creighton and 0.5 km west of Hwy 144. It is not under control.
🔥 Reminder: Follow Outdoor Burning Regulations
To reduce wildfire risk, residents are reminded to avoid burning yard waste. Use composting or local landfill services when possible. If burning is necessary, fires must be lit no sooner than two hours before sunset and extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise. Always keep water or tools nearby to contain the fire and ensure it is fully out before leaving.
🔥 Northwest Fire Region Update (as of May 5, 2025)
There are 3 active wildland fires in the Northwest Region:
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Red Lake 2 (RED002) – A 1.7-hectare fire north of Sandy Lake First Nation, discovered May 5. This fire is not under control.
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Kenora 10 (KEN010) – A 0.1-hectare fire, located 11 km west of Keewatin near Birch Lake. It is now under control.
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Red Lake 1 (RED001) – Discovered May 4, approximately 5 km northeast of Pikangikum First Nation. This 1.4-hectare fire is under control.
Fires Declared Out Since May 1:
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Kenora 8 (KEN008) – Southwest side of Longbow Lake, out at 0.1 ha.
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Kenora 9 (KEN009) – Near Sandy Lake, northwest of Keewatin, out at 0.1 ha.
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Dryden 1 (DRY001) – North end of Dryden, near Leach and Boyd Roads, out at 0.1 ha.
🔥 Fire Hazard Levels
At the time of this report, the fire hazard remains high throughout most of the Northwest Region, with areas of extreme fire hazard reported in the Red Lake sector and along the Manitoba border.
Residents and outdoor enthusiasts are advised to:
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Avoid open flames when possible.
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Never leave a campfire unattended.
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Ensure your fire is fully extinguished before leaving the area.
Check the Interactive Fire Hazard Map for real-time updates in your area.
📞 How to Report a Wildland Fire
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North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 310-FIRE (3473)
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South of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 9-1-1
🔗 Stay Informed
For real-time updates, prevention tips, and safety information:
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Follow: @ONforestfires / @ONfeudeforet on Facebook, Instagram, and X
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Visit: www.ontario.ca/forestfire