the MNR
Residents of Mishkeegogamang First Nation are scheduled to return to their community tomorrow (July 1).
The decision was recommended by the Ministry of Natural Resources based on ongoing fire suppression efforts and the weather forecast.
Changes in wind direction and weather, however, could lead to smoke returning to the community.
A contingency plan is being developed to deal with the evacuation of Phase 1 community members if required, including the elderly, youth, or those with health concerns.
To help facilitate tomorrow’s return, the MNR, with Mishkeegogamang leadership, is organizing transportation, as well as securing health services and assessing infrastructure (including the water treatment plant) with other agencies.
These services were being organized in advance to ensure an orderly arrival in Mishkeegogamang.
Meanwhile, the Emergency Area Order remains in place. Travel restrictions on Highway 599 will remain in effect until 7 a.m. tomorrow.
Any further details regarding restrictions will be announced as information becomes available.
In related news, there were three new fires in the region by the end of the day yesterday—Sioux Lookout Fires #45, #46, and #47.
Recent rainfall across the region has helped ease the fire hazard slightly, dropping it to “low” in the south, “moderate-high” in central and northern sections of the region, and “high-extreme” in the far north.
There currently are 13 active fires in the region, including two in Fort Frances District (both of which were reported weeks ago in Quetico Provincial Park and continue to be observed).
Fire prevention information is available at ontario.ca/fireprevention
