Drifting smoke from wildland fires in northern Quebec along the eastern side of James Bay is being seen across the Northeast Region in Ontario and is impacting air quality across the area, according to a news release from the Ministry of Natural Resources.
More information on smoke forecasts can be found at FireSmoke.ca.
The Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services say there are currently 34 active wildland fires in the region. Of these, one is being held, five are under control and 28 are being observed.
Following is Tuesday's news release:
Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services
Northeast Fire Region
August 15, 2023
Time of Report – 18:00 EST
Northeast Region
There are currently 34 active wildland fires in the Northeast Region. Of these, 1 is being held, 5 are under control and 28 are being observed. Smoke drift from wildland fires in northern Quebec along the eastern side of James Bay is affecting air quality across the Northeast Region.
Two new fires were confirmed in the Northwest Region by the early evening. Cochrane 50 is located approximately 11 km west of Lake Abitibi. This 0.5 hectare fire is being held. Hearst 13 is located approximately four kilometers southwest of the community of Opasatika. It is 0.1 hectares and is under control.
The wildland fire hazard ranges from low to high across the Northeast Region today. For a closer look at fire hazard conditions in your area, view our interactive map. There are no fires of note for the Northeast Fire Region at this time.
Smoke drift from wildland fires in northern Quebec along the eastern side of James Bay is being seen across the Northeast Region. For individuals interested in observing smoke forecasts, visit FireSmoke.ca to access current and forecast conditions.
Fireworks Safety
Fireworks are an exciting part of summer, but practice fire safety! You are responsible if hot residue from your fireworks starts a wildland fire and could be held responsible for the cost of putting it out. Consider attending an organized fireworks venue instead of setting off your own.
Help fight forest fires: Stay clear of waterbombers
When waterbombers approach a body of water, move close to the shore so they can perform their scoop safely. A waterbomber will not scoop from a lake or river if encroaching watercraft pose a safety hazard. Be safe, stay clear of waterbombers.
No Drone Zone: Be safe, stay clear of forest fires
Flying drones around forest fires is both dangerous and illegal. When you fly a drone near a forest fire, you can put the lives of pilots, firefighters and other emergency personnel at risk. Be safe, stay clear of forest fires.
Report a Wildland Fire
To report a wildland fire located north of the French and Mattawa rivers, please dial 310-FIRE. To report a forest fire located south of the French or Mattawa rivers, please dial 911. For tips on preventing wildland fires and information on the current fire situation, follow us on Twitter in English and French @ONforestfires and @ONfeudeforet.