As wildfire evacuees in northwestern Ontario gear up to return home, local authorities caution residents that their communities may have undergone significant changes during the summer months. Approximately 624 evacuees from Whitesand First Nation and Armstrong have sought refuge in Thunder Bay since mid-July, with both communities being located around 260 kilometers away from the city.
During a virtual press briefing on Friday, Chief Lawrence Wanakamik of Whitesand indicated that the Ministry of Natural Resources is expected to lift evacuation orders later this week. However, Wanakamik emphasized that residents should not rush back home immediately as Whitesand needs to ensure that the community is adequately prepared before their return.
There were over 2,800 wildfire evacuees from various communities in northwestern Ontario at the peak of this summer’s wildfire activities. Presently, just over 700 individuals remain displaced, as per Ontario’s Ministry of Emergency Preparedness and Response (MEPR).
MEPR officials stated that decisions regarding the return to communities are made by First Nation community leadership, guided by the Ministry of Natural Resources. The Ministry remains in constant communication with First Nations to provide updates on fire activity and address any concerns.
Whitesand has not yet requested ministry assistance for repatriating its members, noted MEPR officials. Once safe to return, the MEPR will coordinate transportation and necessary support services for the evacuees.
In Whitesand and Armstrong, both cellphone and landline services are offline. The province plans to provide Starlink equipment for three months to ensure internet access in emergencies. Additionally, preparations are underway for addressing damaged homes, providing essential supplies, waste management, and mental health support during the repatriation process.
Darian Baskatawang, Whitesand’s senior adviser, highlighted the anticipated smoke and water damage in homes and buildings, with plans in place to swiftly deliver air purifiers and cleaning supplies. Mental health resources will also be readily accessible to assist residents in coping with the potential emotional impact of returning to changed surroundings.
As firefighting efforts continue across Ontario, more than 120 wildfires persist, primarily affecting northwestern regions. The Rinker Lake Complex, including wildfires Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34, and Dryden 35, remains uncontrolled. Firefighters from Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, Ontario, and Mexico are focusing on suppressing identified hot spots within the Complex.
Communities like Cobourg have rallied to support Whitesand and Armstrong through fundraising initiatives, including the 10 for 10 Donation Campaign, which garnered significant contributions. The Northwestern Ontario Wildfire Community Support Fund has also raised substantial funds, showcasing widespread community support for the evacuees’ eventual return home.