Dozens of wildfires are currently raging across northwestern Ontario, forcing mandatory evacuations in several communities and straining local accommodations. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) North West Region has confirmed evacuation orders for Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation), Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), and Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation).
Residents from Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and Collins First Nation have been directed to Thunder Bay for shelter. However, the City of Thunder Bay reports that accommodations are becoming scarce. Gull Bay First Nation has stated that there are no longer any available accommodations in Thunder Bay for its members, with some evacuees being flown to Toronto. This situation is placing significant pressure on the resources of host communities like Thunder Bay, which has previously served as a regional evacuation hub.
The fires are being fueled by hot, dry conditions and high winds, leading to aggressive fire behaviour. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources, as of Monday evening, there were 128 active wildland fires in the Northwest Region, with 53 of those not under control. The province has implemented a Restricted Fire Zone across the Northwest Region, effective Wednesday, July 15, prohibiting open-air burning.
The impact on affected First Nations is severe. Chief Helen Paavola of Collins First Nation reported that members had to self-evacuate by boat and vehicle as flames approached their homes, with an assessment of community damage pending. Kiiwetinoong NDP MPP Sol Mamakwa described the situation as devastating, stating that an entire First Nation community has been erased by the disaster. Road closures are also in effect on several highways, disrupting travel in the affected areas.
