Approximately 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have made their way back home following a surge of wildfire incidents in mid-July. However, as of Friday, around 829 individuals are still displaced, as confirmed by authorities from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
During this summer’s wildfires, over a dozen communities, predominantly First Nations settlements, were evacuated in the region. Regrettably, two communities, namely Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, suffered complete devastation.
With the wildfire threat subsiding in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation) ended its state of emergency from mid-July last week, encouraging evacuees to return home. Despite this progress, Chief Wilfred King expressed concerns about the Ontario government’s withdrawal of wildfire directives and evacuation orders, emphasizing the ongoing risks to members and infrastructure.
Chief King, who had earlier advised against premature optimism regarding reduced fire hazards, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment on Tuesday. While noting some remaining hot spots, they were assured by the Ministry of Natural Resources that appropriate measures were in place.
Advocating for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, Chief King highlighted communication lapses with First Nation leaders and inadequacies in emergency readiness. Emphasizing the need for unresolved issues from a month ago to be addressed, he stressed the importance of preparedness for potential future evacuations.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community located approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of around 370 residents, has seen restored road access. However, Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, along with a significant section of Highway 811, remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
Ontario currently grapples with nearly 140 wildfires, mainly concentrated in the northwest region. Notable among them are Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex. Efforts involving FireRanger crews from various regions, including the imminent arrival of firefighters from Mexico, are being coordinated to contain the wildfires.
Despite most evacuees from Gull Bay returning safely, Chief King emphasized the need for vigilance, considering the official wildfire season extends until October 31. While expressing satisfaction over the safe return of community members without injuries or property damage, he reiterated their readiness to evacuate promptly if necessary.
