About 2,000 individuals who were evacuated from various parts of northwestern Ontario have now returned to their homes following a period of heightened wildfire activity in mid-July. However, approximately 829 people are still displaced as of Friday, as per officials from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
During this summer’s wildfire outbreaks, over a dozen communities, primarily First Nations settlements, were evacuated in the region. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were completely destroyed.
As the wildfire threat subsided in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (also known as Gull Bay First Nation) officially ended its state of emergency that had been in place since mid-July on Wednesday. The chief and council of the community have urged evacuees to return to their homes.
Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay First Nation criticized the Ontario government for rescinding wildfire implementation and evacuation orders around the community. He expressed concerns for the safety of members and infrastructure, emphasizing that risks persist.
Despite initial concerns over lingering forest fire hazards, Chief King, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment of the situation on Tuesday. They noted some remaining hot spots but were assured by the Ministry of Natural Resources that proper monitoring was in place.
While advocating for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, Chief King highlighted the need for better communication with First Nation leaders and improved emergency preparedness measures.
Gull Bay First Nation, a community of around 370 Ojibway residents located approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay, 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.
Across Ontario, nearly 140 wildfires are currently active, with the majority concentrated in the northwest region. The closest fires 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 suppress these fires involve FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and soon, firefighters from Mexico. The fire activity in the Rinker Lake complex is reported as low.
Despite the positive outcome of evacuations and the safety of residents, Chief King emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant as the official wildfire season extends until October 31. Should the need arise, the community is prepared to evacuate again to ensure the safety of its members.