The authorities in northwestern Ontario have issued a new evacuation order due to ongoing wildfires in the region. The evacuation is for an area near the Fort Frances 14 fire, which spans over 55,000 hectares and remains uncontained. Residents in the vicinity of Baril, Bedivere, and Windigoostigwan lakes, as well as Lac des Mille Lacs, have been instructed to evacuate immediately unless they possess a travel permit from the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNRF).
As of Thursday evening, there were 129 active fires in the region, according to the provincial Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) agency. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, during a press briefing on Friday, expressed gratitude to the communities hosting evacuees and assured that the province is working to provide necessary support, including transportation, accommodation, food, and registration services. Ford also mentioned the deployment of over 150 fire crews and 80 aircraft, with assistance from Alberta and Yukon governments, as well as preparedness for federal support if needed.
Numerous evacuation orders have been issued in recent days for various areas and communities, such as Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, and others. Additionally, several communities have been alerted about potential evacuations, including Quetico, Atikokan, and Pickle Lake. Highway closures are in effect on Highway 527 and Highway 599 due to wildfire activity.
Air quality alerts have been issued for multiple regions, with orange alerts in effect for areas like Thunder Bay and Fort Frances. Improvement in air quality is anticipated with possible showers and a shift in wind direction on Friday. However, the fire hazard remains high in northwestern Ontario, leading to a restricted fire zone prohibiting open-air burning.
The challenging conditions have prompted the suspension or closure of various services and events. City of Thunder Bay has closed outdoor pools and golf courses, while the Thunder Bay Border Cats postponed a scheduled game due to air quality concerns. Fort William Historical Park canceled an upcoming event, and the Thunder Bay District Health Unit adjusted its services due to the air quality situation. Additionally, Thunder Bay’s annual Festival of India has been rescheduled to August 15.