Massive fire south of Timmins still out of control, First Nation community being evacuated

The forest fire season is ramping up in northern Ontario, prompting evacuations in Mattagami First Nation. The fire hazard is currently rated extreme across a large area running from Sudbury to Dryden.

One fire in particular, Timmins 9, is 464 hectares in size and is located 10 kilometres north of Gogama, eight kilometres west of Highway 144, and 14 kilometres west of Mattagami First Nation.

Jennifer Constant, chief of Mattagami FN, confirmed to CTV News that evacuations of about 160 people by bus began Wednesday morning because of Timmins 9. The fire is about 13 kilometres away.

Everyone will be evacuated if the fire gets five kilometres from the community.

Out of control

In its latest update, Ontario Forest Fires confirmed that the fire is still not under control.

“Nine Ontario Fire Ranger crews continue to respond to this wildland fire,” the update said.

“Two CL415s waterbomber aircraft and a lead birddog aircraft are continuing to support crews on the ground this afternoon.”

Another serious fire that is out of control is Cochrane 5, a 40-hectare fire located near the Peawanuck Airport.

As a result, Weenusk First Nation has declared a state of emergency and is asking for help from Indigenous Services Canada — a request that the chief and council said has been refused.

State of emergency

“We respectfully disagree with the decision,” the community said in a news release June 2.

“The wildfire remains dangerously close to our community and conditions continue to create uncertainty and concern from residents.”

The release said more help should be available June 3.

“We are working closely with emergency responders, staff and partner agencies to ensure the safety of community members and to prepare for any actions that may be required,” the release said.

“We encourage all community members to stay alert, follow official updates and be prepared to act if further emergency measures are implemented.”

The Ministry of Natural Resources has also restricted access to several roadways and trails in the area in the interest of safety and to support firefighting efforts. Motorists are advised to consult 511 if travelling in the region.

Across the northeast region, there are six active wildland fires, of which four are considered out of control. Three new fires were confirmed Tuesday evening.

Wawa 3 is seven hectares in size and is located one kilometre east of Upper Loponen Lake and 16 kilometres northwest of Caramat. This fire is not under control.

Timmins 10 is 1.5 hectares and located east of Kasasway Lake and about 28 kilometres northwest of Gogama. This fire is also not under control.

To report a wildland fire located north of the French and Mattawa rivers, please dial 310-FIRE (3473). To report a wildland fire located south of the French or Mattawa Rivers, please dial 911.

The provincial fire map can be accessed here.

More information about the current wildland fire situation can be found here.