Wildfire Hazard Ramps Up! High to Extreme Conditions across Region

THUNDER BAY – Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services reports that five wildfires remain active across the Northwest Region as of Tuesday, May 6, with two new fires discovered late this afternoon.

Two New Fires Reported on May 6

• Kenora 11 (KEN 011): Discovered near Rice Lake Road, approximately 2 kilometres west of Clearwater Bay. This fire spans 0.2 hectares and is currently not under control.

• Kenora 12 (KEN 012): Located on an island in Obabikon Lake, roughly 17 kilometres southwest of Sioux Narrows. This fire covers 0.1 hectares and is also not under control.

Fires Reported on May 5: Progress and Containment

Two additional fires were confirmed Monday evening, May 5:

• Fort Frances 1 (FOR 001): Located 8.5 kilometres west/southwest of Atikokan near Highway 11, this 1.5-hectare blaze was initially responded to by Atikokan Fire Rescue. A MNR FireRanger crew is now on site, and the fire is being held.

• Thunder Bay 2 (THU 002): Approximately 9 kilometres northwest of Lappe, this 0.1-hectare fire is now under control.

Current Regional Wildfire Status

As of this report, the Northwest Region has five active fires:

• 2 fires not under control

• 1 fire being held

• 2 fires under control

Fire Hazard Rating: High to Extreme

The fire hazard remains high to extreme across the region and is expected to stay that way until significant rainfall arrives. Conditions are primed for rapid fire spread, and residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning altogether.

Interactive Fire Hazard Map: To check wildfire risk near you, visit the province’s Interactive Fire Map.

How to Report a Wildfire

• North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 310-FIRE (3473)

• South of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 9-1-1

Prompt reporting helps ensure a fast response and minimizes risk to people, property, and the environment.