Around 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have made their way back home following a surge in wildfire incidents in mid-July. Despite this, approximately 829 individuals are still displaced as of Friday, as confirmed by officials at Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
The ongoing wildfires this summer led to the evacuation of over a dozen communities in the area, predominantly comprising First Nations, with two communities – Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation – facing complete destruction.
With the wildfire risks subsiding in much of the region, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation) ended its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Chief Wilfred King expressed concerns last week over the Ontario government’s rescinding of wildfire orders around the community, emphasizing the continued vulnerability of members and infrastructure.
Though cautious about decreased forest fire dangers, King, along with two band councillors, conducted an assessment from a helicopter on Tuesday. Despite observing some hot spots, they were assured by the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) that the fires’ west side was adequately manned, leading to increased confidence in the improved situation.
King persists in calling for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, citing insufficient communication with First Nation leaders and inadequate emergency readiness measures. He stressed the need to address unresolved issues from a month ago.
Situated approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay, Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community with about 370 residents, has regained road access. However, sections of Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, as well as a significant portion of Highway 811, remain closed due to nearby wildfires.
With nearly 140 wildfires burning across Ontario, most in the northwest, the closest fires to Gull Bay First Nation are Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex. Efforts are ongoing to suppress these fires, with additional firefighter support expected from Mexico.
Despite the return of almost all Gull Bay evacuees with no injuries or property damage reported, Chief King emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant as the official wildfire season extends until October 31. Preparations for potential future evacuations are being emphasized to ensure community safety.
