Fire crews in Northwestern Ontario are now monitoring 48 active wildfires across the region, according to the latest update from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
A single new fire—Sioux Lookout 57—was confirmed on July 15. It’s located on an island in Lake St. Joseph, southeast of Slate Falls Nation Reserve, and is being held at 0.1 hectares.
Of the 48 active fires, 10 are not under control, 5 are being held, 6 are under control, and 27 are being observed.
The wildland fire hazard remains low to moderate across most of the region.
Red Lake 62 near Pikangikum First Nation continues to be the largest and most complex fire response. The fire has grown to 31,367 hectares, but 3 to 5 mm of overnight rain helped reduce fire activity. Thirteen crews are now working on the blaze, supported by helicopters and heavy equipment. Repair work is also underway to damaged power infrastructure in the area.
Travel and access restrictions remain in place under an Emergency Area Order. The order limits access to roads, trails, lakes, and Crown lands near the fire, unless authorized by the Ministry.
Other fires of note include:
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Red Lake 12: Now being observed at 195,670 hectares.
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Red Lake 40: At 8,789 hectares, it remains not under control. Sprinkler systems are active on critical infrastructure in North Spirit Lake.
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Red Lake 67: Measuring 32,364 hectares near McDowell Lake First Nation, with structural protection complete and hose lines being established.
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Red Lake 72: Now 4,941 hectares. Rainfall near Poplar Hill is expected to help crews as they continue extinguishing spot fires.
