Thousands Evacuated Wildfires Ravage Northwestern Ontario

Thousands of people are being evacuated from multiple communities in northwestern Ontario as dozens of out-of-control wildfires ravage the region, destroying homes and infrastructure and forcing dramatic rescues. The situation, described by officials as dynamic and unprecedented, has led to mandatory evacuation orders for several First Nations and the town of Armstrong, with smoke from the massive blazes affecting air quality across the province and into the northeastern United States.

As of July 16, 2026, there were 136 active wildfires in the northwest region, with 63 considered out of control. The largest, known as Thunder Bay 36, has grown to over 350,000 hectares after merging with several other fires. The fires have caused extensive damage, particularly in Namaygoosisagagun First Nation, also known as Collins First Nation. Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation, Linda Debassige, stated the community was "completely devastated," with homes and community buildings destroyed. She confirmed that, based on information available as of July 15, all community members have been accounted for after they were forced to evacuate without immediate emergency services support.