High to extreme fire hazard persists across Northwestern Ontario; public urged to stay alert and prepared

THUNDER BAY – Wildfire Update – As of the evening of May 14, there are 15 active wildfires burning across the Northwest Region, according to Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES).
Of these, 4 fires are under control, 1 is being held, 1 is under observation, and 9 remain not under control.

New Fire Starts and Current Situation

Seven new fires were confirmed on May 14:

• Kenora 25, 26 and Red Lake 5 remain not under control.

• Red Lake 6 is under control.

• Dryden 6 and other smaller fires are still active.

• Kenora 24 and Fort Frances 5 have been declared out.

The wildfire hazard remains high to extreme across most of the region, with dry conditions and strong winds fueling fire activity.

Fires of Note:

🚨 Kenora 20 (KEN020)

• Size: 23,281 hectares – Not under control

• Located within 2.5 km west of Wabaseemoong Independent Nation, but suppression efforts have kept the fire from entering the community.

• 48 sprinkler systems installed on key infrastructure; air attack and helicopter support ongoing.

• Rain (15-20 mm) expected late Thursday could temporarily ease fire behaviour.

Travel Restrictions and Evacuation Orders remain in effect.

Areas including Malachi Lake, Otter Lake, Macara Lake, Longpine Lake and nearby waterways and Crown lands remain off-limits without special permits.
For travel permits, contact Annie Langford at (807) 456-2370.

🚨 Kenora 14 (KEN014)

• Size: 1,526 hectares – Not under control

• Minimal growth today. Crews remain focused on structural protection in Wabaseemoong area.

• Travel restrictions remain in place, including on Highway 525 and English River waterways.

🚨 Fort Frances 4 (FOR004)

• Size: 3,233 hectares – Not under control

• 8 FireRanger crews working with helicopters to protect structures.

• Evacuation alert issued for all areas accessed by Camp 111 Road, Crooked Pine Road, Crystal Lake, Sapawe area, Marmion Lake, and surrounding communities.

• Residents are urged to prepare for evacuation on short notice and monitor updates at ontario.ca/fireupdates.

🚨 Sioux Lookout 3 (SLK003)

• Size: 2,000 hectares – Not under control

• Highway 599 remains closed.

• Evacuation orders and travel restrictions have been issued for the surrounding region, including Savant Lake, Kashaweogama Lake, and nearby road systems.

For permits, contact Jacey Cole at (807) 738-5658.

Important Safety Reminders:

• Do not fly drones near active fires—it’s dangerous and illegal.

• Report any wildfires north of French or Mattawa Rivers at 310-FIRE. South of these rivers, call 9-1-1.

• Be prepared: pack essentials, monitor official alerts, and respect all evacuation orders and restricted zones.

Stay safe, Northwestern Ontario.