Approximately 2,000 evacuees from various parts of northwestern Ontario have made their way back home following a surge in wildfire activity in mid-July. However, as of Friday, around 829 individuals are still displaced, as per reports from the Ontario Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
Throughout the summer, a significant number of communities, predominantly First Nations settlements, were evacuated due to wildfires in the region. Tragically, two communities, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation, were entirely destroyed by the fires.
With the wildfire threat subsiding in many areas, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation) lifted its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Despite this positive development, Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed concerns about the Ontario government’s decision to withdraw wildfire implementation and evacuation orders, emphasizing the continued risk faced by community members and infrastructure.
While cautious optimism was advised regarding reduced forest fire dangers, Chief King, along with two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment on Tuesday. They noted some hot spots but were assured by the Ministry of Natural Resources that appropriate measures were in place on the west side of the fires.
Chief King remains vocal about the necessity for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, citing issues with communication with First Nation leaders and inadequate emergency preparedness protocols. He stressed the importance of addressing unresolved issues from a month ago.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community situated approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of around 370 residents, has had road access restored. However, due to nearby wildfires, Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, as well as a significant portion of Highway 811, remain closed in both directions.
Currently, there are nearly 140 wildfires burning across Ontario, with the majority concentrated in the northwest region. Notably, the Rinker Lake Complex, comprising Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, and Dryden 35, poses significant challenges as they remain uncontrolled.
Efforts to suppress these wildfires involve FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, with additional support expected from firefighters arriving from Mexico. Despite ongoing suppression measures, fire activity in the Rinker Lake area is currently low.
Wildfire risks vary across the region, with high hazard zones primarily in the Kenora and Dryden fire management sectors. Despite the return of almost all evacuees from Gull Bay with no injuries or property damage reported, Chief King emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant as the official wildfire season extends until October 31.
In conclusion, the community is prepared to evacuate again if necessary, prioritizing the safety and well-being of its members.
