Fresh Starts and Fire Danger in the Northeast as Crews Monitor Conditions

By Evan Lizotte, Fire Information Officer
Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services
Report Time: 6:20 PM EDT, June 17, 2025

Two New Wildland Fires Sparked in the Northeast Region

NORTHEAST ONTARIO – Fire activity ticked up again in the Northeast Fire Region today, with two new wildland fires confirmed as of early evening. While the overall number of fires remains low compared to the Northwest, current conditions continue to favour fire starts—especially in drier southern zones and the Far North.

Here’s the breakdown on today’s new fires:

• Cochrane 7 (COC007): Measuring 126 hectares, this fire is burning approximately 87 kilometres northwest of Fort Severn. At this time, it is being observed, with no direct suppression underway.

• Timmins 5 (TIM005): A small but active 0.1-hectare fire, this one was discovered near the west side of Highway 144, just 4 km west of Gogama. Crews have responded, but the fire is currently not under control.

Active Fires in the Northeast Region

As of this report, the Northeast Region has four active fires:

• 1 fire is under control

• 1 fire is not under control

• 2 fires are currently being observed

While the fire count is low, the potential for fire growth remains concerning in several areas due to elevated fire hazards.

Fire Hazard Conditions Across the Northeast

The fire hazard ranges from moderate to extreme, especially:

• South of Timmins and west of Sault Ste. Marie, where ongoing dry conditions are increasing fire risk

• In the Far North, where warm, dry weather is sustaining high to extreme hazard levels

On a brighter note, areas north of Timmins, Chapleau, and Sault Ste. Marie, extending to James Bay, are enjoying lower fire hazards for now. However, this can shift quickly—so residents are encouraged to stay updated via Ontario’s Interactive Fire Map.

Outdoor Burning: Follow the Rules, Stay Safe

Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services reminds residents to be especially cautious with outdoor burning. Where possible, compost or dispose of yard debris at local landfills.

If burning is absolutely necessary:

• Fires should be ignited no earlier than two hours before sunset

• Fires must be extinguished no later than two hours after sunrise

• Always have tools and water ready to contain the fire

Be aware of Ontario’s Outdoor Burning Regulations and your local municipal rules. When in doubt, don’t light it—especially during high fire danger periods.

Drones and Fires Don’t Mix

A serious reminder: Flying drones near wildfires is illegal and dangerous. Drone use near active fire zones can endanger pilots, FireRangers, and suppression crews.

If it flies, it shouldn’t be anywhere near a fire zone.

Reporting a Wildland Fire

• North of the French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 310-FIRE

• South of those rivers: Call 9-1-1

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

To stay current on wildfire conditions and safety tips:

• Follow @ONforestfires and @ONfeudeforet on Facebook, Instagram, and X for updates in both English and French

With summer well underway and fire hazards climbing in parts of the Northeast, awareness and quick reporting remain the best tools in prevention and response. Let’s keep the forests safe, green, and drone-free.