Staff
Five new forest fires sprung up in the Northwest Region over Canada Day, with the number of active blazes jumping from 17 late Sunday to 22 as of this morning.
Dryden District saw two new fires, as did Nipigon District.
Red Lake District had one new blaze.
There currently are 11 active fires in Sioux Lookout District, seven in Nipigon District, two in Dryden District, one in Kenora District, and one in Red Lake District.
The Ministry of Natural Resources reported the forest fire hazard is “high” to “extreme” for all of Northwestern Ontario except for the north shore of Lake Superior, where it remains “moderate” due to localized weather conditions.
The steady climb into the “extreme” range is expected throughout this week as there is no precipitation in the immediate forecast.
Be very cautious with any source of ignition or flame, such as a camp fire, shore lunch, fireworks, hot motors from ATVs, and heavy machinery.
In related news, reports of forest fire smoke throughout Northern Ontario continue to be received from the public as hazy skies and that incomparable scent lingers in the air.
In Northwestern Ontario, smoke is drifting into the province from large fires in Manitoba and even as far away as the Northwest Territories.
In Northeastern Ontario, smoke is drifting into the province from large fires burning in Quebec.
Until there is a significant change in wind direction or weather pattern, smoke will continue to drift.
