Approximately 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have made their way back home following a surge in wildfire activity that occurred in mid-July. However, as of Friday, around 829 individuals are still displaced based on information from officials at Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The recent wildfires prompted the evacuation of over a dozen communities in the area, primarily comprising First Nations settlements. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were entirely devastated by the fires.
With the wildfire threats subsiding in most regions, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (also known as Gull Bay First Nation) lifted its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed concerns regarding the Ontario government’s decision to revoke wildfire implementation and evacuation orders, emphasizing the ongoing risks faced by the community.
Despite initial reservations about the reduced forest fire dangers, Chief King, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday. They noted some hot spots but were reassured by the Ministry of Natural Resources’ efforts in managing the fires.
Chief King continues to push for a public inquiry into the province’s handling of wildfires due to issues such as communication gaps with First Nation leaders and insufficient emergency preparedness measures.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of about 370 residents, has had road access restored. However, sections of Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, as well as a significant portion of Highway 811, remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
Ontario currently has nearly 140 active wildfires, with the majority concentrated in the northwest. The closest fires to Gull Bay First Nation include Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex.
Efforts to contain the wildfires are ongoing, with FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, as well as upcoming support from firefighters in Mexico. The situation across the Rinker Lake Wildland Fire Complex is currently under control.
Wildfire risks vary across the region, with areas of high hazard primarily observed in the Kenora and Dryden fire management sectors. The majority of evacuees from Gull Bay have safely returned home, with no injuries or property damage reported.
Despite the positive outcome, Chief King emphasizes the need for continued vigilance, reminding community members that the official wildfire season extends until October 31. Preparations are in place to evacuate if necessary to ensure the safety of residents.