Approximately 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have made their way back home following a surge in wildfire activity in mid-July. Yet, around 829 individuals are still displaced as of Friday, as confirmed by authorities at Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
During this summer’s wildfires, over a dozen communities, mainly comprising First Nations, were evacuated in the region. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were completely devastated by the fires.
As the wildfire threats have diminished in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (also referred to as Gull Bay First Nation) ended its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to return to their homes.
Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed dissatisfaction with the Ontario government’s rescinding of wildfire implementation and evacuation orders near the community, emphasizing the ongoing risks faced by their members and infrastructure.
While cautioning against premature optimism about reduced fire hazards, King, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday morning. According to King, the Ministry of Natural Resources assured that the fires were being managed properly, leading to increased confidence in the improved conditions.
Despite the improvements, King continues to push for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, citing concerns about inadequate communication with First Nation leaders and emergency preparedness shortcomings.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located around 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of approximately 370 residents, has had road access restored. However, Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong and a significant portion of Highway 811 remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
In Ontario, nearly 140 wildfires are currently active, with the majority concentrated in the northwest region. Notably, Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex, pose significant challenges as they remain uncontrolled.
FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, alongside upcoming support from firefighters from Mexico, are engaged in suppression efforts across the Rinker Lake Wildland Fire Complex. The situation has been described as relatively stable, with low fire activity reported.
The wildfire hazards vary from low to high in different parts of the region, with Kenora and Dryden fire management sectors experiencing high hazard levels. Despite the return of most evacuees to Gull Bay without any injuries or property damage, Chief King reminds residents that the official wildfire season runs until October 31, advising vigilance and preparedness in case future evacuations are necessary.
