About 2,000 individuals evacuated from various parts of northwestern Ontario have now returned to their homes following a significant increase in wildfire incidents in mid-July. However, as of Friday, around 829 people are still displaced, as reported by officials from Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response.

The recent wildfires led to the evacuation of over a dozen communities in the area, predominantly First Nations settlements, and resulted in the complete destruction of two communities: Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (also known as Collins First Nation) and Whitewater Lake First Nation.

With a decrease in wildfire threats across much of the region, Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation) lifted its state of emergency on Wednesday, urging evacuees to return home. Chief Wilfred King expressed dissatisfaction with the Ontario government’s removal of wildfire implementation and evacuation orders around the community, citing ongoing risks to members and infrastructure.

Despite cautious optimism about reduced forest fire dangers, Chief King, accompanied by two band councillors, conducted an aerial assessment on Tuesday, noting some remaining hot spots but expressing confidence in improved conditions. He emphasized the need for a public inquiry into the province’s wildfire response, highlighting issues such as poor communication with First Nation leaders and inadequate emergency preparedness measures.

Gull Bay First Nation, an Ojibway community situated about 215 kilometers north of Thunder Bay with a population of approximately 370 residents, has restored road access. However, sections of Highway 527 between Kopka River and Armstrong, along with a significant portion of Highway 811, remain closed due to nearby wildfires.

Currently, there are nearly 140 active wildfires in Ontario, mostly concentrated in the northwest region. Notable fires near Gull Bay First Nation include Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, Dryden 35, and Thunder Bay 56. These fires, collectively known as the Rinker Lake Complex, continue to pose challenges despite ongoing suppression efforts involving FireRanger crews from Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario. Additional support from Mexican firefighters is expected to bolster firefighting capabilities.

While the wildfire hazard level varies from low to high in different areas, with high-risk zones mainly in the Kenora and Dryden fire management sectors, the majority of evacuees from Gull Bay have safely returned home. Chief King emphasized the need for continued vigilance as the official wildfire season extends until October 31, stating readiness to evacuate again if necessary.