Wildfire Update: Kenora 14 Expands to 1,027 Hectares as New Fires Emerge Near Thunder Bay and Armstrong

THUNDER BAY – Wildfire activity continues to intensify across Northwestern Ontario as three new fires were discovered by late afternoon on May 10, 2025, and the Kenora 14 fire has expanded dramatically in size. Fire crews across the region remain actively engaged as dry weather fuels high to extreme fire danger levels in multiple sectors.

New Wildfires Reported in Kenora and Thunder Bay Districts

Three new wildland fires were detected on Saturday:

• Kenora 15 (KEN015): Located 500 metres east of Ostersund Road on the west side of Lake Lulu, this 0.1-hectare fire has been declared out.

• Thunder Bay 4 (THU004): Situated half a kilometre north of Badwater Lake and six kilometres southwest of Armstrong, this 0.3-hectare fire is not under control.

• Thunder Bay 5 (THU005): Approximately seven kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay, this 0.1-hectare fire is currently being held.

At the time of reporting, there are four active fires in the region — one is being held and three remain not under control.

Kenora 14 Sees Major Growth, But Crews Make Progress Near Wabaseemoong

Following a detailed remapping, Kenora 14 has increased in size to 1,027 hectares. The fire continues to expand on its northeast and eastern flanks, though southerly winds are helping limit its progression toward Wabaseemoong Independent Nation and have improved air quality in the area.

Firefighting Update:

• Air attack operations have reduced fire intensity near the community.

• Hoseline installation is underway on the southern edge of the fire.

• 11 FireRanger crews are currently assigned to Kenora 14, with 3 more en route.

• 4 helicopters are actively working the fire, with 3 more aircraft arriving May 11.

Travel Restrictions Enforced Under Emergency Area Order

Due to the threat posed by Kenora 14, an Implementation Order (EAO 2025-01) was declared effective May 10 at 12:01 p.m. CDT. Restrictions are now in place for public safety and to support fire suppression efforts:

• Travel along Highway 525 north of Wabaseemoong is prohibited without a permit.

• Use of lakes and waterways in the English River system between Tetu Lake and Umfreville Lake, as well as between Goshawk Lake and Umfreville Lake, is not permitted.

• All use and occupation of Crown Land within the designated order area is banned.

To request a travel permit, contact Annie Langford at the Kenora District Ministry of Natural Resources:
📞 (807) 456-2370 | 📧 Annie.Langford@ontario.ca

View Implementation Order Map Here

Dryden 5 Fire Response Ongoing With Ground Crews and Air Support

Dryden 5 (DRY005) continues to burn near Peterson Cove on Sturgeon Lake, approximately 62 kilometres northeast of Ignace. The 140-hectare fire remains not under control but responded well to aerial waterbombing on Friday.

• 4 ground crews and heavy equipment are currently deployed.

• Values protection measures are actively being implemented.

Fire Hazard Remains High Across the Region

The wildland fire hazard across the Northwest Region remains mostly high, with moderate conditions in parts of Thunder Bay and Greenstone sectors. Dry fuels, wind, and low humidity continue to pose a risk of fire spread.

Residents are urged to avoid outdoor burning and check local fire restrictions before conducting any open flame activity.

Drone Use Near Fires Remains Illegal and Dangerous

The public is reminded that flying drones near active wildfires is both dangerous and illegal. Drones interfere with aerial firefighting operations and place crews and pilots at risk.

Do not fly drones in wildfire zones. Stay safe, stay clear.

How to Report a Wildfire in Ontario

To report a wildfire:

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

• South of those rivers: Call 9-1-1

For the latest wildfire conditions and an interactive fire map, visit Ontario’s Wildfire Information Page.