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. However, as of Friday, around 829 individuals are still displaced, as reported by Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
This summer, a significant number of communities, predominantly First Nations, were evacuated due to wildfires in the region. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were completely destroyed.
With the wildfire threats diminishing in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation) ended its state of emergency from mid-July this past Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Despite the relief, Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed concerns about the Ontario government’s revocation of wildfire measures, citing ongoing risks to their community and infrastructure.
Chief King, who had previously warned against premature optimism regarding reduced fire hazards, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday. Although some hot spots were observed, they were assured by the Ministry of Natural Resources that the fires were being properly managed on the west side. This led to a sense of confidence that the situation had significantly improved.
Nevertheless, Chief King continues to push for a public inquiry into the province’s response to the wildfires due to communication gaps with First Nation leaders and inadequate emergency preparedness measures. He emphasized the need to address unresolved issues from a month ago.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located approximately 215 kilometers 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, as well as a significant portion of Highway 811, remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
Currently, Ontario is grappling with nearly 140 wildfires, predominantly 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 with vast areas remaining uncontrolled.
Efforts to contain the fires are ongoing with FireRanger crews from various regions collaborating to suppress the Rinker Lake Wildland Fire Complex. Mexico is also set to contribute approximately 60 firefighters to bolster the suppression operations. Despite the challenges, fire activity in the region remains relatively low.
While most evacuees from Gull Bay have safely returned home without any casualties or property damage, Chief King underscores the importance of remaining vigilant as the official wildfire season extends until October 31. Preparedness remains key, with a commitment to evacuating if the need arises again.