Approximately 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have made their way back home following an uptick in wildfire incidents in mid-July. Nevertheless, around 829 individuals are still displaced as of Friday, as per the Ontario Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The recent wildfires prompted the evacuation of over a dozen communities in the area, predominantly comprising First Nations, and led to the complete destruction of Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation.
With the wildfire risks subsiding in much of the region, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation) terminated its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Despite initial concerns expressed by Chief Wilfred King regarding the withdrawal of wildfire protocols by the Ontario government, recent assessments have shown improved conditions.
King stressed the need for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response due to issues related to communication with First Nation leaders and emergency preparedness deficiencies. Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay, is home to about 370 residents.
While road access to Gull Bay has been reinstated, sections of Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, as well as a significant portion of Highway 811, remain closed due to nearby wildfires. Across Ontario, close to 140 wildfires are currently active, with the majority concentrated in the northwest region.
Notable fires in proximity to Gull Bay First Nation include Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex. Efforts to contain these fires involve FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, with additional support expected from firefighters arriving from Mexico.
Despite most evacuees from Gull Bay having returned safely, Chief King emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, as the official wildfire season extends until October 31. The community stands prepared to evacuate if necessary.