THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – The restricted fire zone may be over, however the conditions across the Northwest region still require extreme care and vigilance to maintain safety across the region.
The wildfire situation continues to intensify across Northwest Ontario, with four new wildland fires confirmed by the early evening of June 14, according to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES). A total of 24 wildfires are currently active in the region, with seven not under control and fire hazards ranging from high to extreme across much of the Northwest.
New Fires as of June 14
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Kenora 38 (KEN038):
Located approximately 8 km northeast of Nestor Falls and just 3 km east of the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, this 0.1-hectare fire is now under control thanks to prompt firefighting action. -
Fort Frances 15 (FOR015):
Burning near Calm Lake, around 6.4 km northwest of the Highway 11 and Flanders Road junction, this small but active 0.1-hectare fire is not under control. -
Red Lake 20 (RED020):
A significant remote wildfire estimated at 1,200 hectares, located south of Stull Lake near the Manitoba border. Due to its remoteness, this fire is currently being observed. -
Sioux Lookout 22 (SLK022):
Situated near Two Rivers Lake, approximately 20.5 km west of Bearskin Lake First Nation, this 0.1-hectare fire is also not under control.
Regional Wildfire Overview
As of the latest update, the Northwest Region is managing 24 active fires:
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7 not under control
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2 being held
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5 under control
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10 being observed
The wildfire hazard is predominantly high in the southern zones, escalating to extreme in many northern areas. Residents and visitors are encouraged to monitor the province’s Interactive Fire Map for real-time conditions and Restricted Fire Zone updates.
Fires of Note: Key Areas Under Watch
Red Lake 12 (RED012) – Near Deer Lake and Sandy Lake First Nations
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A new Ontario Incident Management Team assumed command on June 13.
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Clear skies and northwest winds intensified fire behaviour along the eastern and southeastern edges.
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Aerial suppression with two waterbombers and heavy helicopters is ongoing.
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At Sandy Lake First Nation, Fire Ranger crews are finalizing structural protection and expanding firebreaks using heavy equipment to safeguard the community.
Nipigon 5 (NIP005) – Webequie First Nation
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Still not under control, holding steady at 10,816 hectares.
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Minimal fire activity has been recorded recently, and the perimeter remains unchanged.
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Crews are targeting persistent hotspots on the northeast and southeast arms of the fire.
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Helicopter bucket operations continue to support ground crews.
Public Safety Reminder: No Drone Zone
AFFES reminds the public that drones are strictly prohibited near wildfire zones. Unauthorized drone use can interfere with critical aerial firefighting operations, endangering both aircrews and ground personnel. Flying a drone near an active fire is illegal and could result in fines or criminal charges.
Reporting Wildfires
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North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 310-FIRE (3473)
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South of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Call 911
As fire conditions worsen in Northwest Ontario, residents are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to fire safety protocols. Timely reporting and responsible behaviour can make a critical difference in protecting communities and natural resources.
