THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE REPORT — The Northwest Region is facing a surge in wildland fires as dry, windy conditions drive up the fire hazard to extreme levels, especially in the southwest from Red Lake to east of Quetico Provincial Park. At present, there are 8 active fires, with 5 not under control, according to Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES).
Nine new fires were confirmed by early evening May 12. Four have since been declared out, but several key fires continue to challenge crews and threaten communities and infrastructure.
Fires of Note:
Fort Frances 4 (FOR004):
Located near Crystal Lake, east of the Highway 11 and Highway 623 junction, this 180-hectare fire remains out of control. CL415 waterbombers are actively engaged. The OPP is managing alternating traffic along Highway 11 between Sapawe Junction and Crystal Inlet Road to ensure crew safety.
Kenora 20 (KEN020):
This fire on Longpine Lake, east of Ingolf, has triggered a precautionary evacuation of residents. The fire, measuring 100 hectares, is being fought with aerial suppression and remains out of control.
Thunder Bay 6 (THU006):
Burning near Garden Lake, west of Highway 811, this 20-hectare fire is not under control, highlighting elevated risk in areas north of Thunder Bay.
Fires Under Control or Being Held:
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Kenora 17 (KEN017): 5 hectares, being held near Minaki.
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Red Lake 4 (RED004): 0.1 hectares, under control southwest of Madsen.
Four other small fires in the Kenora, Nipigon, and Red Lake districts have been called out.
Kenora 14 (KEN014) – Growing Threat Near Wabaseemoong
Kenora 14 has expanded to 1,300 hectares, fueled by ignition operations on the fire’s eastern side designed to control its spread toward natural barriers. 14 FireRanger crews and 7 helicopters are deployed, focusing on protecting nearby communities and structures.
Favourable southerly winds are currently helping direct smoke and fire activity away from Wabaseemoong First Nation.
Restrictions and Road Closures:
Under Emergency Area Order EAO 2025-01, strict travel and access restrictions are now in effect around Kenora 14:
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Highway 525 north of Wabaseemoong is closed unless permitted.
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Use of lakes and waterways in the English River system and nearby regions is prohibited.
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All use of Crown land in the designated area is banned until further notice.
Permits are required for travel in affected zones. Contact Annie Langford at (807) 456-2370 or [email protected] for details.
Extreme Caution Urged Across Region
AFFES urges extreme caution with outdoor burning, as the fire hazard remains extreme across the region, particularly in forested and remote areas. Use of drones near wildfires is strictly prohibited—violators endanger firefighting crews and could face penalties.
Report Wildfires:
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North of French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 310-FIRE (3473)
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South of French and Mattawa Rivers: Dial 911
