Wildfires prompt urgent evacuations from Deer Lake and Webequie First Nations to Toronto and Barrie. Community leaders declare emergencies for safety.
Wildfires Trigger Emergency Evacuations in Ontario First Nations
Wildfires in northwestern Ontario have forced urgent evacuations from two First Nations communities, with hundreds of residents now seeking shelter in Toronto and Barrie. Community leaders acted swiftly this week, declaring states of emergency to protect their people from the advancing flames.
Deer Lake First Nation Moves Entire Community
Deer Lake First Nation, located just 70 kilometres from the Manitoba border, is facing a wildfire nearly 75 square kilometres in size. On Friday, leaders announced the evacuation of all 1,300 residents to Toronto. The decision comes as the fire’s proximity poses a direct threat to the safety and well-being of the community.
Webequie First Nation Begins Phased Evacuation
Meanwhile, Webequie First Nation, situated about 540 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, is also under threat. A wildfire burning within one kilometre of the community has prompted the first phase of evacuation, focusing on elders, children, and vulnerable residents. Approximately 400 people are being relocated to Barrie for their safety.
Chief Cornelius Wabasse assured residents that the situation is being closely monitored. “We will continue to monitor the fire to determine if further evacuation is needed and will continue ongoing communications with residents,” he said in a public statement.
Previous Wildfires Displace More Communities
This is not the first time wildfires have disrupted northern Ontario communities this season. Earlier in the month, a wildfire northwest of Kenora forced about 800 residents of Wabaseemoong First Nation to evacuate to Niagara Falls, with others sent to Kenora and Winnipeg.
Calls for More Support and Resources
Sol Mamakwa, MPP for the affected region, is urging the Ontario government to accelerate support for evacuees and bolster resources for wildland firefighters. “It is vital that wildland firefighters are adequately staffed and resourced as they are on the frontlines protecting the residents of northern Ontario,” Mamakwa emphasized.
Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources has yet to respond to these calls for increased support.
Staying Informed and Safe
As wildfires continue to pose risks across northern Ontario, community leaders and emergency services remain vigilant. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and follow evacuation orders to ensure everyone’s safety.
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