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More wildfires have been confirmed across Northwest Ontario, with several now growing closer to nearby communities.
As of Thursday evening, 13 new fires were reported in the region, bringing the total number of active fires to 55. Eighteen of those are not under control.
Most of the new fires are small, but some are drawing concern due to their location and size. A 200-hectare fire north of Wishak Lake and another 100-hectare fire near Nibinamik Lake are both not under control.
A 12.5-hectare fire near Kingfisher Lake is also active, along with a 3-hectare blaze near Wyman Lake.
Several fires east and northeast of Nungesser Lake have also flared up in recent days, with suppression efforts ongoing. Larger fires near Pikangikum First Nation, Cat Lake First Nation, and MacDowell Lake remain active and continue to grow. Some roads, including Nungesser Road, have been affected.
The province says fire crews, helicopters, engines, and heavy equipment are all involved in the response. Conditions are especially difficult in the Sioux Lookout and Nipigon areas, where fire hazards remain high to extreme.
Smoke may limit visibility and mapping in some areas, but officials say updates on fire sizes and perimeters will continue as more information becomes available.
People are encouraged to monitor conditions through Ontario’s interactive fire map and stay alert for any evacuation orders or air quality advisories.
