THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE REPORT — As of 5:11 p.m. CDT on September 13, Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) reports two new wildland fires in Northwestern Ontario, bringing the region’s total to 12 active fires.
New Fires in Kenora and Thunder Bay Districts
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Kenora 72 (KEN072): Located near the shoreline of Gun Lake, approximately 3.5 kilometres southeast of Minaki, this fire spans 0.2 hectares and is currently not under control. Crews continue to respond.
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Thunder Bay 28 (THU028): This fire was discovered near Burk/One Island Lake, roughly 27 kilometres northwest of Thunder Bay. It measured 0.1 hectares and has already been declared out.
Current Fire Status in Northwest Region
Of the 12 active fires in the Northwest Region:
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1 fire remains not under control
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3 fires are under control
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8 fires are being observed
In the past 24 hours, one fire has been declared out.
Wildfire Hazard Levels Across Northwestern Ontario
The wildland fire hazard is mainly moderate across the region. However, some pockets of high fire hazard conditionsexist in the Kenora, Sioux Lookout, and Red Lake fire management areas. A low hazard band runs along the International border with Minnesota and the north shore of Lake Superior.
To check conditions in your area, visit the Interactive Fire Map.
Be FireSmart: Protect Your Property
With many Northwestern Ontario communities near forested areas, residents are encouraged to take proactive steps through the FireSmart program. Even small changes—such as clearing brush and debris around homes and cottages—can significantly reduce the risk of wildland fires spreading to structures.
Learn more at: Ontario.ca/firesmart
Burning Restrictions Still Apply
AFFES reminds the public to follow Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations:
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Fires must be started no sooner than two hours before sunset and must be extinguished two hours after sunrise.
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Always have adequate water and tools on hand.
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Where possible, opt to compost yard waste or take it to a municipal landfill rather than burn it.
Know the rules: Read the full regulations here.
Report Wildland Fires Promptly
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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 9-1-1
Stay informed and help prevent wildfires. Follow @ONforestfires and @ONfeudeforet on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
