No new fire starts on August 27, but high fire hazard emerging in Thunder Bay, Sioux Lookout, and Red Lake districts

THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) reports no new fire starts in the Northwest Region as of early evening, August 27, 2025.

Over the long weekend as many head out to the woods, it is not time to let down your guard over the risks and dangers of wildfires.

Currently, there are 26 active wildland fires across the region. Of these:

• 0 fires are not under control

• 3 fires are under control

• 23 fires are being observed

• 1 fire has been extinguished in the past 24 hours

Fire Hazard Conditions Vary Across the Northwest

As of today, the wildland fire hazard ranges from low to high across various districts:

• Low to Moderate in Kenora, Fort Frances, Dryden, and Nipigon

• Moderate to High in Thunder Bay, Red Lake, and Sioux Lookout, where drier conditions are elevating the risk

Residents and visitors are urged to remain cautious, especially in forested and backcountry areas.

To monitor the changing fire hazard in your specific area, visit the Interactive Fire Map provided by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry.

Keep Skies Clear – Drones Are Illegal Near Fires

AFFES continues to stress the importance of keeping drones away from active fire zones. Flying a drone near a forest fire is both dangerous and illegal, as it endangers the lives of aerial crews and emergency responders.

“Be safe. Stay clear of forest fires—on the ground and in the air,” urges the Ministry.

How to Report a Wildland Fire

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

• South of the French and Mattawa rivers: Call 9-1-1

For real-time updates, fire prevention tips, and photos, follow:

• @ONforestfires (English)

• @ONfeudeforet (French)
  on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).

For official updates and information, visit: Ontario.ca/fireupdates