No New Fires Reported in Northwest Region on May 21

THUNDER BAY – WILDFIRE UPDATE – Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services announced that there were no new wildland fires in the Northwest Region by early evening on Thursday, May 21, 2026.

This update is significant for residents of Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario because dry conditions, outdoor burning, and shifting spring weather can quickly change the fire risk in the area.

Thunder Bay 12 Near Shabaqua Corners Addressed

A new fire was detected on the evening of Wednesday, May 20, following the last fire report.

Thunder Bay 12, also known as THU012, was situated about seven kilometres north of Shabaqua Corners. The fire has since been put out at a size of 1.2 hectares.

As per the May 21 update at 5:52 p. m. CDT, there was one active fire reported in the Northwest Region. Over the last day, three fires had been extinguished.

Fire Risk in the Region

Ontario’s interactive fire map indicated fire danger ratings throughout Northwestern Ontario as of 4:32 p. m. CDT on May 21.

The fire danger rating is based on data from over 130 weather stations across Ontario’s Fire Region. These ratings can shift during the day as updated weather data comes in.

Residents are advised to check local hazard ratings before engaging in any burning activities, camping trips, or outdoor work. Blank areas on the provincial map show where current data is unavailable for that Ministry of Natural Resources district.

Rules for Outdoor Fires Still Apply

The designated fire season in Ontario runs from April 1 to October 31.

Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services reminds everyone that outdoor fire regulations are enforced throughout this period. People who need to dispose of yard waste or branches should consider composting or taking their waste to a nearby landfill instead.

If burning is necessary, caution is advised and Ontario’s Wildland Fire Management regulations must be followed closely.

Fires can only be started no earlier than two hours before sunset and must be completely put out within two hours after sunrise. Anyone who starts a fire should have sufficient tools and water ready to keep it contained at all times.

Residents living within municipal limits should also consult their local fire department regarding burn restrictions, permits, or any local burn bans before starting an outdoor fire.

Reporting Wildland Fires

If you see a wildland fire north of the French and Mattawa rivers, call 310-FIRE (3473).
If you’re south of those rivers and need to report a wildland fire, call 911.

For tips on preventing fires and updates about current conditions, residents can follow Ontario’s forest fire accounts on Facebook, Instagram and X at @ONforestfires and @ONfeudeforet or visit Ontario. ca/Fire Updates.

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