Staff
Recent rainfall and cooler temperatures have dropped the fire hazard to “moderate” across the Northwest Region, the Ministry of Natural Resources reported.
A frontal wave over the Manitoba border was set to sweep through the region today, bringing clouds and showers to most of the area, maintaining the current fire hazard, it noted.
However, a return to above-average temperatures and a drying trend is expected, and the public is urged to remain vigilant with any outdoor fires.
Tuesday and Wednesday saw extreme weather conditions sweep through Northern Ontario, with thunderstorms, high winds, and even tornadoes being reported.
Some areas of the Northwest Region received substantial rainfall, which should assist fire crews. However, other parts reported light or no rain and remain at risk for new lightning-caused starts.
The fire hazard across the province will remain “moderate” over the next several days.
As of press time today, there were 95 active fires in the region, affecting 602,701.2 hectares of forest.
There are four fires burning in Fort Frances District, including a 1.0-ha, lightning-caused blaze reported yesterday in Quetico Provincial Park.
It is “being observed,” as are three other blazes in the park.
In related news, two Emergency Area Orders that were put in place for the Sioux Lookout District due to Sioux Lookout Fires #35, #60, and #70 have now been removed.
There are no travel restrictions in place at this time.
