-UPDATE #2- OPP ASSISTING WITH MULTIPLE WILDFIRES IN THE NORTH WEST REGION Gull Bay First Nation Under Evacuation, Highway 11 Reopens
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-UPDATE #2- OPP ASSISTING WITH MULTIPLE WILDFIRES IN THE NORTH WEST REGION
Gull Bay First Nation Under Evacuation, Highway 11 Reopens
(THUNDER BAY, ON) - One highway has reopened and another community is under evacuation as wildfire support in the region continues.
Members of the North West Region Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to support the Ministry of Natural Resources 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.
In addition to mandatory evacuation orders in several communities, the OPP is also supporting Gull Bay First Nation with a mandatory evacuation, in effect as of this evening. Individuals living in this area 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.
The following road closures remain in effect:
- Highway 527 - between Gull Bay First Nation and Armstrong
- Highway 599 -between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang 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 MNR 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.
STAYING SAFE AMID WILDFIRES AND EVACUATIONS
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