Around 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, approximately 829 individuals are still displaced, according to officials from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.
During the summer, a significant number of communities in the region, predominantly First Nations settlements, were evacuated due to wildfires. 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 called Gull Bay First Nation) ended its state of emergency from mid-July on Wednesday, encouraging evacuees to return home. Chief Wilfred King of Gull Bay expressed concerns about the Ontario government’s removal of wildfire implementation and evacuation orders, emphasizing the ongoing risk to community members and infrastructure.
Despite initial skepticism about reduced forest fire dangers, Chief King and two band councillors conducted an aerial assessment on Tuesday morning, revealing improved conditions with minimal fire activity. King praised the Ministry of Natural Resources for their vigilant monitoring of the fire zones, instilling confidence in the community’s safety.
Chief King continues to push for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, citing communication gaps with First Nation leaders and inadequate emergency preparedness measures. He emphasized the need to address unresolved issues from previous incidents.
Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community situated approximately 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of around 370 residents, has regained road access. However, sections of Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong remain closed in both directions, along with a significant portion of Highway 811 due to nearby wildfires.
In Ontario, there are nearly 140 active wildfires, with a majority concentrated in the northwest region. Notable fires near Gull Bay First Nation include Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex. Firefighting efforts involving crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and soon Mexico are ongoing to contain the blazes.
Despite the return of most evacuees to Gull Bay, Chief King emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant as the official wildfire season extends until October 31. The community is prepared to evacuate again if necessary to ensure the safety of its residents.