Multiple new outbreaks near Cat Lake, Taillon Lake, and Tully Lake; major fires remain ongoing
THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE REPORT – Fire Information Officer Evan Lizotte of Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services reports significant wildfire activity in the Northwest Fire Region as of June 20, 2025 (18:20 CDT).
🔥 New Fires Confirmed
Six new wildland fires were confirmed today:
| Fire ID | Location | Size | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| SLK026 | 18 km NW of Cat Lake | 0.3 ha | Held |
| RED029 | 1 km E of Taillon Lake | 0.4 ha | Not under control |
| SLK027 | Near Singapore & Payne Lakes | 0.2 ha | Not under control |
| SLK028 | NW of Munch Lake, SE of Hergott Lake | 0.1 ha | Not under control |
| RED030 | NE of Trout Lake, W of Shabumeni Lake | 0.1 ha | Not under control |
| SLK029 | South end of Tully Lake | 0.2 ha | Not under control |
🔥 Fire Totals & Control Status
There are now 29 active wildland fires across the region:
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8 not under control – active suppression needed
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5 held – contained but monitored (including SLK026)
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5 under control – fire behaviour stabilized
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11 being observed – inactive, but under surveillance
🌡️ Fire Hazard Conditions
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Southern region: Mostly low to moderate risk
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Far North: Hazard levels high to extreme, especially near new outbreaks
Check the Interactive Fire Hazard Map for district-specific insights.
🔥 Fires of Note: Ongoing Major Incidents
Red Lake 12 (RED012) – Deer Lake & Sandy Lake FN
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Size: 183,208.5 ha – Uncontrolled
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No growth toward nearby communities
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Continued use of waterbombers, heavy helicopters, and ground hose-line construction
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Structural sprinkler protection active in Deer Lake, Sandy Lake, and Keewaywin
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No rain since June 9; some precipitation expected early next week
Nipigon 5 (NIP005) – Webequie FN
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Size: 10,816 ha – Uncontrolled
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Low-intensity flames
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Crews targeting hot zones along northeast and southeast arms
Sioux Lookout 18 (SLK018) – Cat Lake FN
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Size: 23,816 ha – Uncontrolled
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Resources on site: 9 FireRanger crews, 22‑person Incident Management Team, 4 helicopters
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Focused efforts to establish perimeter hose-lines south and southwest of Cat Lake FN
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Daytime heat and sunshine have dried fuels; reduced activity observed in southern area
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Increased northern fire activity noted; easterly winds forecasted may increase smoke over the weekend
🚫 No Drone Zone Reminder
Drones are strictly prohibited above wildfire zones. They endanger air suppression operations and put firefighters at risk. Please respect temporary air restrictions.
📞 How to Report Wildland Fires
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North of French/Mattawa Rivers: Call 310‑FIRE (3473)
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South of those rivers: Dial 9‑1‑1
🌐 Stay Informed
Follow official wildfire updates and prevention advice:
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Social media: @ONforestfires / @ONfeudeforet on Facebook, Instagram, X
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Online: Maps, alerts, and safety protocols at ontario.ca/fireupdates
