Three new wildfires have been reported in northwestern Ontario, bringing the total number of active fires in the region to 25 as of June 17.
The latest fires are located near the Ontario-Manitoba border, northeast of Goose Lake, and south of Slate Falls Nation. All are small in size and not yet under control.
So far, eight of the 25 active fires in the region are not under control. Others are being held, managed, or monitored. Fire risk remains high in much of the Far North, while areas further south like Fort Frances and Thunder Bay are seeing lower risk levels.
The largest fire — Red Lake 12 — has now been remapped at more than 177,000 hectares. It remains out of control, but officials say the fire has not moved any closer to Deer Lake or Sandy Lake First Nations. Fire crews continue to hold the line, using helicopters and water bombers to keep the fire from advancing further. Teams on the ground are also working to maintain hose lines and sprinkler systems around buildings and infrastructure in the nearby communities, including Keewaywin.
Two other large fires remain a concern. Nipigon 5, near Webequie First Nation, is still active at more than 10,800 hectares. Crews are focusing on hotspots, with improved weather helping them target more areas.
Sioux Lookout 18, near Cat Lake First Nation, remains out of control at nearly 24,000 hectares. Firefighters are focused on the southwest side of the fire closest to the community.
Rain and cooler temperatures expected this week may help with firefighting efforts.
