Approximately 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have been able to return to their homes following a significant increase in wildfire activity in mid-July. Nevertheless, as of Friday, around 829 individuals are still displaced, as confirmed by officials from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The recent wildfires led to the evacuation of more than a dozen communities in the area, predominantly inhabited by First Nations peoples, and resulted in the complete devastation of two communities, known as Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also called Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation.
With the wildfire threats subsiding in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (also known as Gull Bay First Nation) ended its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to come back home. Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed disappointment over the Ontario government’s decision to revoke wildfire implementation and evacuation orders around the community, highlighting ongoing risks to members and infrastructure.
Despite some lingering concerns about reduced forest fire risks, Chief King, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday morning. King mentioned that while there were a few hot spots, they were assured that the Ministry of Natural Resources was effectively managing the fires on the west side.
Advocating for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, King emphasized the need to address initial issues and enhance communication with First Nation leaders for better emergency preparedness measures. Gull Bay First Nation, situated about 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of approximately 370 residents, has seen road access restored, although sections of Highway 527 and Highway 811 remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
Ontario is currently grappling with nearly 140 wildfires, most concentrated in the northwest region. Notable fires near Gull Bay First Nation include Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively referred to as the Rinker Lake Complex. International firefighting crews, including personnel from Mexico, are assisting in suppression efforts across the Rinker Lake Wildland Fire Complex.
As the wildfire season progresses, the region faces varying levels of fire hazards, with high-risk areas primarily in the Kenora and Dryden fire management sectors. While most evacuees from Gull Bay have safely returned home, Chief King stressed the importance of remaining vigilant, as the official wildfire season extends until October 31, reiterating their readiness to evacuate if necessary.