Thunder Bay, ON – NEWS – Thunder Bay is once again playing a vital role in Northern Ontario’s emergency response system, as the city supports the evacuation of Sandy Lake First Nation due to the advancing Red Lake 12 wildfire. The fire, now burning within just 2 kilometres of the community, has triggered a full evacuation order as of Saturday afternoon.
Thick smoke and reduced visibility prompted urgent action. Residents are being airlifted by Royal Canadian Air Force Hercules aircraft to Thunder Bay, which is acting as a hybrid evacuation hub—providing a safe space for evacuees to rest before being transferred to longer-term accommodations elsewhere in Southern Ontario.
Aircraft will continue arriving throughout Sunday, with Thunder Bay International Airport serving as the central coordination site. Private transportation services are assisting in moving evacuees to short-term lodging options.
While the City of Thunder Bay is currently in a standby support role, it remains ready to activate additional resources—such as shelter, transport, and logistics—should the situation escalate or more communities require evacuation.
“These are extraordinary circumstances, and we are doing everything possible to support the safe arrival and temporary accommodation of Sandy Lake residents,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff. “We thank our partners, staff, and local service providers who have stepped up quickly to assist in this response with compassion and care. It’s in moments like these where the spirit of Northern Ontario and our commitment to one another is reflected in the way we respond.”
Fire conditions are expected to improve in the coming days, with forecasts calling for cooler, wetter weather, offering hope to firefighters battling the blaze.
Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
