Northwest Region starts wildfire season with no active fires, province reminds residents of burning rules
Thunder Bay – Wildfire Update – It is with little wonder that there are no active wildland fires in Ontario’s Northwest Fire Region as of Thursday afternoon, April 9. Wet snow and periods of rain with a significant snow pack in the Thunder Bay region are contributing factors.
Regardless, provincial fire officials say outdoor burning rules are now in effect across the province for the 2026 fire season.
In Thunder Bay and across Northwestern Ontario because spring conditions can shift quickly, and early-season prevention is key in a region where communities, highways, rail lines and resource roads can all be affected by wildfire activity.
Province to issue wildfire updates twice weekly
Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services said in its 3:45 p.m. CDT update Thursday that no active wildland fires are burning in the Northwest Region.
At this time, fire situation updates will be issued twice weekly. The next update is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14.
Outdoor fire rules now in effect across Ontario
Officials are reminding the public that Ontario’s legislated fire season runs from April 1 to Oct. 31.
During that period, residents are urged to use alternatives such as composting or local landfill services to dispose of yard waste and woody debris. Where burning is necessary, people must use caution and follow Ontario’s outdoor burning rules.
Under provincial rules, fires may be ignited no earlier than two hours before sunset and must be fully extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise. People burning outdoors should also have enough tools and water on hand to keep the fire under control.
Residents living within municipal boundaries are also being told to check with their local fire department for any burning restrictions or permit requirements before lighting a fire.
Why the early-season reminder matters in Northwestern Ontario
While there are no active fires in the Northwest Region at this point, the seasonal reminder is significant for Thunder Bay and surrounding communities. Northwestern Ontario regularly faces wildfire risk during the spring and summer, especially during dry, windy stretches that can quickly turn a small grass, brush or debris fire into a larger incident.
For rural properties, camps and communities near forested areas, compliance with burning rules is one of the simplest ways to reduce preventable fire starts. Early caution is especially important in a region where smoke, road disruptions and emergency response pressures can have wide impacts.
How to report a wildland fire
To report a wildland fire north of the French and Mattawa rivers, call 310-FIRE (3473).
To report a wildland fire south of the French or Mattawa rivers, call 911.
Where to find updates
Ontario fire officials say the public can follow the latest fire information and prevention tips through the province’s forest fire social media accounts in English and French, including @ONforestfires and @ONfeudeforet on Facebook, Instagram and X.
