Approximately 2,000 individuals who had been evacuated from various areas in northwestern Ontario have now returned to their homes following a significant increase in wildfire activity in mid-July. Nevertheless, as of Friday, around 829 people are still displaced, as confirmed by officials from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The recent wildfires necessitated the evacuation of over a dozen communities in the region, predominantly inhabited by First Nations peoples. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were completely destroyed by the fires.
With the wildfire threat subsiding in many parts of the region, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (also known as Gull Bay First Nation) terminated its state of emergency from mid-July this past Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed concerns over the Ontario government’s lifting of wildfire implementation and evacuation orders, emphasizing the ongoing risks to the community.
Despite a cautious approach towards reduced forest fire hazards, Chief King and two band councillors conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday. They observed some remaining hot spots but were reassured by the Ministry of Natural Resources’ vigilant monitoring of the fires, leading to increased confidence in the improved conditions.
Chief King continues to advocate for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, citing communication gaps with First Nation leaders and insufficient emergency preparedness measures as key concerns.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located approximately 215 kilometres north of Thunder Bay with a population of about 370 residents, has restored road access. However, sections of Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong and a significant portion of Highway 811 remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
Across Ontario, nearly 140 wildfires are currently active, with a majority concentrated in the northwest region. Notable fires near Gull Bay First Nation include Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56. These fires, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex, continue to pose challenges for firefighting efforts.
The Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services reported that FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario are actively engaged in suppressing the Rinker Lake Wildland Fire Complex. Additional support from approximately 60 firefighters from Mexico is expected to bolster ongoing suppression operations.
Although most evacuees from Gull Bay have safely returned home, Chief King emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant as the official wildfire season extends until October 31. Preparations for potential evacuations are in place should the need arise again in the future.
