THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO / RankWire.AI / – The northern region of Ontario encountered an expanding wildfire crisis Wednesday, with close to 200 blazes burning throughout the province. As of 3 p.m. on July 15, Ontario reported 183 active wildland fires. By evening, the Northwest Fire Region had 136 ongoing fires, with 63 still uncontrolled. Additionally, eight new fires were documented during the day. Hot, dry, and gusty conditions kept fire danger at extreme levels across several northern districts.
Authorities issued evacuation orders for Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Gull Bay First Nation, and Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation. Evacuations also affected Namaygoosisagagun First Nation and Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation. The Ontario Provincial Police supported these efforts and managed road closures throughout the area. Officials advised residents near Ignace, Crystal Lake, and Highway 633 to prepare for potential departure. Emergency personnel urged the public to keep evacuation routes clear and avoid unnecessary travel.
A wildfire impacted Namaygoosisagagun, a remote settlement approximately 200 kilometres north of Thunder Bay. Residents evacuated by boat, as no road connects the community to nearby towns. The Anishinabek Nation confirmed that all known residents had been accounted for and had reached safety, pending a full community assessment. The fire caused damage or destruction to homes and other structures. With around 40 residents, local leaders continued inspecting properties and assessing damages after the evacuation.
Evacuations and Road Closures Disrupt Life in Northern Ontario
Highway 599 remains closed between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation, while Highway 527 is shut between Gull Bay First Nation and Armstrong. Highway 11 has reopened between Highways 633 and 623, although emergency crews are still operating nearby. Canadian National Railway halted operations near Armstrong after flames encircled a train. Workers evacuated the area safely. Police warned drivers to anticipate changing conditions and to adhere to all closure notices.
Firefighting teams concentrated on protecting communities, residences, and vital infrastructure throughout northwestern Ontario. Dryden 13 joined nearby fires in the Wabakimi region, forming the larger Thunder Bay 36 fire. Other high-priority zones included Quetico Provincial Park, Atikokan, Upsala, Cat Lake, and Fort Hope. Water bombers targeted active fire fronts while ground crews constructed containment lines. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources mobilized available personnel and equipment across the most vulnerable areas.
Wildfire Smoke Extends Into Southern Ontario and US States
Smoke from the wildfires has traveled from northern Ontario into the southern parts of the province and into northeastern United States. Toronto’s Air Quality Health Index hit 10+, indicating the highest risk category, during heavy smoke on Wednesday. Environment Canada issued warnings about very poor air quality and limited visibility. Health officials advised children, seniors, and individuals with heart or lung conditions to reduce outdoor activities. Fine particles from the smoke can irritate airways and exacerbate existing health issues.
A Restricted Fire Zone has been established across the Northwest Fire Region and parts of northeastern Ontario. The order prohibits open fires, including campfires, and halts existing burning permits. Ontario has recorded 453 wildland fires so far this year, compared to 349 at the same point in 2025. The 10-year average for this period is 312 fires. The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources urged residents to follow evacuation instructions and to check official updates on roads and wildfires before traveling.