Ontario Combating Wildfires, Smoke & Extreme Heat

Sky-high temperatures, dry trees and grass, and wildfires. Ontario is facing severe challenges as we swelter through the second extreme weather event this summer.

Earlier today (July14th), Ontario Provincial Police said evacuation orders are in effect for Armstrong and Cushing Lake, as well as Collins First Nation, Whitesand First Nation and Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, due to ongoing forest fires.

According to an alert issued Monday by Emergency Management Ontario, residents were advised to leave the area and head south to Thunder Bay. Police say residents in Ignace, Crystal Lake and the Highway 633 area should also prepare for possible evacuations.

The extreme heat is affecting firefighting efforts. Environment Canada’s forecast has much of northern Ontario under a severe heat warning Tuesday, with predicted highs of 36 C and the humidex reading making it feel as hot as 40 C. Thunder Bay set its own city record on Monday after reaching a daytime high of 39.5°C, becoming the hottest July day of all-time. The previous record was set on July 30, 1975, when temperatures reached 37.2°C. It is, however, not the hottest temperature ever recorded in the city. That record was set back on Aug. 7, 1983 when temperatures reached 40.3°C.

Smoke from the active wildland fires in Northwestern Ontario and the U.S. is drifting across the province including Central Ontario. Residents may notice smoke and haze.

In a Facebook post, Kearney Fire and Emergency Services advised residents to stay alert, even if no fires are nearby. If you see smoke or flames that appear to be from a new or uncontrolled fire, call 911 immediately. Early reporting helps firefighters respond quickly and can prevent small fires from becoming major incidents.

Many regions across the 705 are currently under a HIGH Fire Hazard Rating. With the ongoing hot, dry weather, vegetation can ignite easily and fires can spread rapidly. If you do have a campfire, make sure to soak the area thoroughly. While the fire may appear to be out, material underneath can still be burning.

This record-breaking heatwave can also pose significant health risks. Even healthy individuals can feel the impact of heat related illnesses, so it’s important to know what the signs are and take proper precautions such as frequent breaks, adequate hydration, and staying in air-conditioned spaces. Many municipalities are opening city halls, community centres and schools as cooling centres. Seniors, children, and people with respiratory illnesses are particularly at risk, so be careful. Never leave children and pets in vehicles. Temperatures can be deadly in just minutes.

Temperatures are expected to cool slightly into Tuesday night and Wednesday. Hydro One is reminding everyone to be prepared for sever weather at anytime. They recommend the following items to be prepared for 72 hours without power: