OPP ASSISTING WITH MULTIPLE WILDFIRES IN THE NORTH WEST REGION - Mandatory Evacuations in Place in Several Communities
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OPP ASSISTING WITH MULTIPLE WILDFIRES IN THE NORTH WEST REGION
Mandatory Evacuations in Place in Several Communities
(THUNDER BAY, ON) - The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is assisting the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) Fire with evacuation efforts in several northwestern Ontario communities as ongoing wildfires continue to threaten affected areas.
On July 13, 2026, at approximately 4:00 pm, members of the of the North West Region OPP began assisting the MNR Fire with the response to ongoing wildfires in the areas of Rainy River District, Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Collins First Nation, Gull Bay First Nation, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation and surrounding area, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), Pickle Lake, Ignace and Upsala.
The MNRF has implemented mandatory evacuations in Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Collins First Nation, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation) and surrounding area, and Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation and surrounding area. Individuals living in areas under mandatory evacuation orders have been asked to leave their residence immediately and seek safety away from active fires. Other communities are being monitored, and residents are urged to stay informed and be prepared to act quickly should further evacuation orders or advisories be issued. Additional information will be issued as it becomes available.
As a result of the ongoing wildfire situation, the following highways have closures in place:
- Highway 11 between Highway 633 and 623
- Highway 599 - southbound closed between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation
- Highway 527 - northbound at Gull Bay First Nation
The OPP North West Region Headquarters has deployed Aviation Services, the Emergency Response Team, the Provincial Liaison Team and Operational Support teams to support the MNRF and communities affected by the ongoing wildfires. Working closely with community and policing partners, officers are assisting with evacuations, enforcing road closures and helping to ensure public safety in impacted areas.
For their safety and the safety of emergency responders, members of the public and media are strongly urged to:
- Stay away from affected areas and refrain from attending wildfire scenes to take photos or videos
- Remain calm and follow all evacuation orders and emergency instructions issued by local authorities
- Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas
- Monitor official sources for the latest information and evacuation updates
- Remain away from evacuated areas until authorities have advised it is safe to return
- Help keep roadways clear so emergency personnel can carry out their work safely and effectively
- If evacuating, bring essential medications, identification, important documents, mobile devices and chargers, and any items required to support the needs of family members and pets
SOURCES OF OFFICIAL INFORMATION