Thunder Bay / Kenora Region – August 17, 2026 – There are currently 84 active wildfires in northwestern Ontario, according to the latest report from Ontario’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services.
Seven fires remain not under control, six are being held, and nine are under control. The remainder are being observed. Overall fire hazard is mostly low across the region, with pockets of moderate risk near Kenora and higher hazard areas north of Lake Nipigon.
The large Rinker Complex (Thunder Bay 36, Dryden 34 and Dryden 35) continues as one of the biggest operations. Evacuation orders remain in place for areas affected by those fires. Cooler temperatures and possible rain over the weekend were expected to help reduce fire intensity.
Crews continue suppression efforts as conditions improve in many parts of the northwest.
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