Wildfire crews in Northwestern Ontario are managing 49 active fires across the region, including three new ones confirmed on July 16.
The most significant new blaze is Red Lake 111, located north of Malette Lake and northwest of Weeskayjakh Ohtahzhoganeeg Provincial Park. It remains not under control and currently measures 1.5 hectares. Another new fire, Red Lake 110, is burning at 0.1 hectare south of Valhalla Lake. Sioux Lookout 58 has been extinguished.
Overall, 12 fires are not under control, two are being held, seven are under control, and 28 are being observed. Fire hazard conditions vary from low to extreme, with the highest concern in a pocket west of Big Trout Lake in the Sioux Lookout sector.
Red Lake 62 remains a major focus, burning near Pikangikum First Nation and covering 31,367 hectares. Crews took advantage of recent rainfall to make progress, but with fair weather expected to return, fire behaviour is forecasted to increase. Heavy helicopters were used to drop water on the fire’s northeast perimeter.
A total of 13 FireRanger crews are assigned to Red Lake 62, supported by seven pieces of heavy equipment and up to 15 helicopters. Repairs to fire-damaged electrical infrastructure have now been completed.
Travel restrictions remain in place under an Emergency Area Order. People are prohibited from entering a wide area north of Red Lake, including several roads, lakes, and protected areas unless they have a travel permit from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
Other Fires of Note:
- Red Lake 12, near Deer Lake and Sandy Lake First Nations, is now being observed at 195,670 hectares.
- Red Lake 40, near North Spirit Lake First Nation, received 20 mm of rain. Crews are working to contain the northern perimeter and have completed sprinkler setup on key infrastructure.
- Red Lake 67, near McDowell Lake First Nation, has been resized to 26,182 hectares. Protection systems are in place, and hose lines will be established when conditions allow.
- Red Lake 72, east of Poplar Hill, remains not under control at 4,941 hectares. Four crews are active on the fire’s east side.
