THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – May 22, 2025 | 20:01 CDT – Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) reports that as of this evening, 11 wildfires are currently active in Ontario’s Northwest Fire Region.
Of these, 4 fires are not under control, 2 are being held, 4 are under control, and 1 is being observed.
One new fire was confirmed today:
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Fort Frances 6 (FOR006): Located approximately 3 km north of Little Pine Lake off Highway 71, this 0.4-hectare fire has been extinguished.
🔥 Fire Hazard Conditions
The wildland fire hazard remains a serious concern, especially in the western portions of the region. Conditions range from low to moderate in the east, but much of the west — including Red Lake, Kenora, Dryden, and Fort Frances sectors — is facing high to extreme fire hazard levels.
Despite recent precipitation and cooler temperatures, forested areas remain critically dry, leaving the region highly susceptible to fire starts and flare-ups.
For localized conditions, visit Ontario’s Interactive Fire Map.
🔥 Fires of Note
KENORA 20 (KEN020)
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Estimated at 31,276 hectares
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Not under control
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Received aerial suppression from CL-415 waterbombers and heavy helicopters today
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Fire crews are making progress with hoselines from multiple flanks, moving both north and south along the perimeter
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Ground crews supported by aircraft continue to target hot spots inside the fire zone
KENORA 14 (KEN014)
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Estimated at 1,607 hectares
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Being held
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Crews are strengthening hoselines on the eastern perimeter, with conditions stabilizing
FORT FRANCES 4 (FOR004)
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Estimated at 3,593 hectares
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Not under control, but showing minimal activity
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FireRanger teams are working to locate and extinguish remaining hot spots
SIOUX LOOKOUT 3 (SLK003)
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Estimated at 1,849 hectares
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Not under control
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Suppression efforts continue with hoselines and heavy equipment
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Infrared scanning has been used to detect areas of concern for targeted action
🚫 Restricted Fire Zone Remains in Effect
Due to extreme fire hazard conditions, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry has declared a Restricted Fire Zone (RFZ) across parts of the Northwest Region, effective since May 16 at 12:01 a.m. This includes Zones 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8.
Within the RFZ:
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No open-air burning, including campfires, is permitted
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All burning permits are suspended
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Portable gas or propane stoves may be used for cooking or warmth with caution
The RFZ will remain in place until further notice.
📍 For a detailed map of the RFZ boundaries, visit Ontario.ca/fireupdates.
🚁 No Drone Zone – It’s the Law
AFFES reminds the public that flying drones near wildfires is strictly prohibited and dangerous. Unauthorized drone use can interfere with aircraft, delay suppression efforts, and put lives at risk. Always keep drones well away from wildfire zones.
📞 How to Report a Wildland Fire
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North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 310-FIRE (3473)
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South of the French or Mattawa Rivers: Call 9-1-1
🌲 Stay Vigilant, Stay Safe
With hazard levels elevated and suppression resources active across the region, public cooperation is critical. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary fire risks, respect all fire restrictions, and remain informed.
For the latest wildfire updates and restrictions, visit:
👉 ontario.ca/fireupdates
