About 2,000 individuals who were evacuated from various parts of northwestern Ontario due to heightened wildfire activity in mid-July have now been able to return to their homes. However, as of Friday, approximately 829 people are still displaced, according to officials from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The wildfires that occurred this summer led to the evacuation of over a dozen communities in the area, particularly affecting First Nations populations. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were completely destroyed.
With the wildfire threats subsiding in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek, also known as Gull Bay First Nation, terminated its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to come back home. Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed concerns over the Ontario government’s rescinding of wildfire implementation and evacuation orders in the community, emphasizing the ongoing risks faced by residents and infrastructure.
Although Chief King initially warned against premature optimism regarding reduced forest fire dangers, he, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday. King later reported that while there were some hot spots, the Ministry of Natural Resources assured proper management of the fires on the west side, leading to increased confidence in the improved conditions.
Despite the progress, Chief King continues to push for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, citing communication gaps with First Nation leaders and insufficient emergency preparedness measures.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located around 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of about 370 residents, has now regained road access. However, Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, as well as a significant part of Highway 811, remains closed due to nearby wildfires.
In Ontario, there are nearly 140 active wildfires, primarily concentrated in the northwest region. The closest fires to 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, remain uncontrolled, with firefighting efforts ongoing.
Authorities have enlisted FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and expect additional support from 60 firefighters from Mexico to bolster suppression operations. Despite the challenges, fire activity in the Rinker Lake complex is currently low.
The wildfire risks vary from low to high across the region, with high-risk zones primarily identified in the Kenora and Dryden fire management sectors. Most evacuees from Gull Bay have safely returned home with no injuries or property damage reported, prompting relief among community members. However, Chief King emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant, as the official wildfire season extends until October 31, reiterating the readiness to evacuate if necessary.
