Wildfire Updates and Information

July 22, 2026 – The City of Thunder Bay is transitioning from an active emergency coordination phase to enhanced monitoring as wildfire conditions across Northwestern Ontario remain serious but stable.

Over the past several weeks, the City has worked closely with emergency management partners to support regional response efforts, prepare for potential developments, coordinate resources, and assist communities affected by ongoing wildfire activity and evacuations.

As conditions have stabilized and no new evacuations are anticipated at this time, the City is standing down its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), which was activated to support coordination and planning related to the regional wildfire situation.

While this marks an important transition, the regional wildfire response continues. Wildfires remain active across Northwestern Ontario, several communities remain under evacuation orders or alerts, and the City stands ready to assist should additional support be required.

Although new evacuations are anticipated at this time, Thunder Bay continues to support evacuees from several Northwestern Ontario communities and remains in close contact with emergency management partners and community organizations to help ensure supports and services are available for evacuees and those affected by the wildfire situation.

While local conditions have improved, wildfire season is not over. Residents are encouraged to take steps to reduce wildfire risk around their homes and properties by following FireSmart principles, including:

• Keeping grass cut short and well maintained
• Removing combustible materials from around buildings and structures
• Maintaining clear access to homes and driveways
• Properly disposing of yard waste, brush, and other debris

Small actions can significantly improve a property's resilience during wildfire season. More information about FireSmart practices is available at www.firesmartcanada.ca.

The City extends its sincere thanks to residents, businesses, community organizations, volunteers, and City staff for their support, generosity, and cooperation throughout the regional wildfire response.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through credible sources, including the City website and social channels, remain prepared, and be proud of the remarkable community response that has helped support evacuees and affected communities throughout Northwestern Ontario.

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources.

We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.

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Contact: Michelle Williams, Manager - Corporate Communications & Public Relations, 807-627-2446

Air quality conditions in Thunder Bay have improved significantly, allowing City services and outdoor activities to continue operating normally while the City maintains its support for the ongoing regional wildfire response.

The Air Quality Health Index is currently at Low-Risk conditions throughout the day, increasing to Moderate Risk tonight and into tomorrow. With improved air quality conditions, all City facilities, outdoor programs, parks, beaches, pools, and recreational amenities are operating as normal. City crews have resumed regular outdoor work and will continue to monitor conditions and implement protective measures if air quality deteriorates. If outdoor work and services are impacted in the future, new information will be provided to the community.

While those at higher risk may wish to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities if they experience symptoms, the public can continue normal outdoor activities. Residents are encouraged to monitor current conditions and adjust activities as needed.

Regional Wildfire Response
No new wildfires have been reported across the region, and no evacuations have been planned for today. While conditions in Thunder Bay have improved, wildfires continue to burn in parts of Northwestern Ontario, and several communities remain under evacuation orders or alerts.

The City remains prepared to support regional response efforts and additional evacuations should the need arise and continues to work closely with emergency management partners across the region.

Community Support
The City extends its sincere thanks to residents, organizations and volunteers for their extraordinary generosity and support shown to evacuees and affected communities throughout the wildfire response.

Physical donation sites have reached capacity and are no longer accepting donations. However, monetary donations continue to be welcome and go a long way in supporting displaced families passing through Thunder Bay and those impacted by ongoing evacuations. Financial contributions can be made through the United Way of Thunder Bay.

Veterinary Support for Evacuees and Displaced Animals
Vets Around the Corner – Community Veterinarian Program, a federally registered not-for-profit organization, has established a veterinary field hospital at Grandview Arena to support wildfire evacuees and those caring for animals displaced by the wildfires.

The field hospital will operate until at least Friday, with the potential to extend services if needed. Veterinary services are provided free of charge for individuals affected by evacuations and those who have taken in animals impacted by the wildfire emergency.

The organization also has the capacity to deploy its veterinary ambulance to other communities should support be required. Residents can contact the field hospital directly at 807-358-5417.

Please note: These services have been established specifically to support animals affected by the current wildfire emergency. Residents are asked to reserve the field hospital's resources for evacuees and displaced animals and to continue using their regular veterinary provider for routine pet care, non-emergency appointments, and new patient registrations.

Food Assistance
The Thunder Bay Emergency Food Plan (EFP) coordinates food assistance and donations during emergencies to help ensure support reaches those who need it most. Anyone requiring food assistance, or wishing to donate food or related supplies, is encouraged to contact the EFP.

Residents can also access information on community food programs through the Where to Get Food in Thunder Bay guide available on the Thunder Bay District Health Unit website.

Volunteering
Community members interested in volunteering to support wildfire response and evacuation efforts are encouraged to register with Ontario Corps, which helps connect volunteers with organizations supporting emergency response across Ontario.

Emergency Preparedness
While conditions in Thunder Bay have improved, residents are encouraged to remain prepared for emergencies. Having a 72-hour emergency kit ready can help individuals and families be self-sufficient during an evacuation, extended power outage, or other emergency situations.

A basic emergency kit should include:

• Drinking water and non-perishable food for each household member
• Prescription medications and important medical supplies
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• Cell phone chargers and backup power sources
• Important documents and identification
• Cash, personal hygiene items, and supplies for children, seniors, and pets

Residents can learn more about emergency preparedness and how to build a 72-hour kit at www.getprepared.gc.ca.

Information and Support
Residents looking for information about wildfire-related supports and services can call or text 211 or visit 211north.ca/northern-ontario-wildfires. In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

The improvement in air quality is a welcome development for Thunder Bay residents and City operations. While the regional wildfire situation remains active, the City continues to monitor conditions, support emergency management partners, and stand ready to assist affected communities if needed.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through credible sources including the City website and social channels, be prepared, and continue showing the community spirit that has defined Thunder Bay's response throughout this emergency.

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.

As air quality conditions continue to improve in Thunder Bay, the City is resuming services that were temporarily impacted by wildfire smoke while continuing to support regional wildfire response efforts. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is currently at High Risk today, improving to Moderate Risk tonight, allowing many outdoor facilities and programs to reopen.

Based on improving conditions, City crews have resumed outdoor work with enhanced health and safety measures where appropriate.

As a result, the following service updates are in effect:

• Splash pads at County Park, Franklin Street, North End Park, Northwood Playfield, and Marina Park/Prince Arthur's Landing are open.
• Outdoor pools and supervised beaches are open and operating as normal.
• Children's and Youth programming is proceeding as scheduled.
• Golf courses, the Botanical Conservatory and Legion Track are open and operating as normal.
• Seasonal Park washrooms have re-opened.
• Collection crews are continuing to pick up garbage from businesses and multi-residential units. Regularly scheduled collection service resumes on Tuesday.

The City will continue to monitor conditions closely and is prepared to adjust operations should air quality deteriorate.

Regional Wildfire Response
While conditions near Thunder Bay have improved, the regional wildfire situation remains active, and several communities remain under evacuation orders or alerts.

Thunder Bay continues to play an important role in the regional emergency response. Evacuees are being accommodated throughout the city, while others are transiting through Thunder Bay International Airport to communities in Southern Ontario.

To support ongoing response efforts, the City has provided Fort William Gardens to the Province to prepare as an evacuation hub for evacuees arriving from the airport should additional capacity be required. The site has been fully set up and is ready to receive evacuees if the need arises.

The City also recognizes the ongoing work of Loomex, which is managing additional reception and accommodation sites at Lakehead University and Thunder Bay International Airport to support the movement and care of evacuees as response needs evolve.

Community Support
The City would like to thank residents for the tremendous generosity they have shown in supporting evacuees and communities affected by wildfires across the region.

At this time, donation sites have reached capacity and are no longer accepting physical donations. The City extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who contributed items to support those in need.

Monetary Donations
Monetary donations continue to be welcome and go a long way in supporting displaced families passing through Thunder Bay and those impacted by ongoing evacuations. Financial contributions can be made through the United Way of Thunder Bay, which is working with response partners to help address evolving needs.

Food donations
The Thunder Bay Emergency Food Plan (EFP) coordinates food assistance and donations during emergencies to help ensure support reaches those who need it most. Anyone requiring food assistance, or wishing to donate food or related supplies, is encouraged to contact the EFP. Residents can also access information on community food programs through the Where to Get Food in Thunder Bay guide available on the Thunder Bay District Health Unit website.

Volunteering
Community members interested in volunteering to support wildfire response and evacuation efforts are encouraged to register with Ontario Corps, which helps connect volunteers with organizations supporting emergency response across Ontario.

Residents looking for information about wildfire-related supports and services can call or text 211 or visit 211north.ca/northern-ontario-wildfires. In an emergency, call 911 immediately.

While improving air quality is encouraging, the situation remains dynamic. Wildfires continue across the region, and additional communities may still require assistance.

The City will continue to monitor conditions closely, work alongside emergency management partners, and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through credible sources, remain prepared, and continue looking out for one another.

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.

While the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for Thunder Bay is currently Very High Risk, it is forecasted to improve later today, and in the coming days, allowing the City to reopen some facilities that were temporarily closed.

As air quality improves, City crews will resume outdoor work with enhanced health and safety measures, including the use of respiratory protection where appropriate, more frequent breaks, and ongoing monitoring of conditions.

As a result, the following service changes are in effect today:

• The Splash Pads at County Park, Franklin Street, North End Park, and the Northwood Playfield are open today.
• Golf courses will monitor air quality throughout the day and will open when conditions improve. Golfers with tee times will be contacted directly. Updates will also be posted on-site and through the City's social media channels when the courses are fully open.

Collection crews are working to pick up garbage from businesses and multi-residential units today and tomorrow. Regularly scheduled residential collection will resume this week.

Outdoor pools and beaches, along with the Marina Park/Prince Arthur’s Landing splash pad will remain closed.

The City will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day and is prepared to adjust operations should air quality deteriorate.

Regional Wildfire Response
While conditions near Thunder Bay have improved, the regional wildfire situation remains active, and several communities remain under evacuation orders or alerts.

Thunder Bay continues to play an important role in the regional emergency response. Evacuees are being accommodated throughout the city, while others are transiting through Thunder Bay International Airport to communities in Southern Ontario.

Community Support
The City would like to thank residents for the tremendous generosity they have shown in supporting evacuees.

Donations continue to be accepted at:

• Superior Inn
• The Avila Centre at Lakehead University
• Thunder Bay Police Service headquarters

Non-perishable food donations can be made to the Regional Food Distribution Centre, while monetary donations are being accepted through the United Way of Thunder Bay.

While today's improvements are encouraging, this situation is not over. Wildfires continue to burn across the region, and additional communities may still require assistance.

The City will continue to monitor conditions closely, work alongside emergency management partners, and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Please continue to stay informed by following credible sources, stay prepared, and take care of one another.

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.

The City of Thunder Bay has activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) as a precautionary measure to support ongoing coordination and planning as the regional wildfire situation continues to evolve.

The activation of the EOC allows City staff and emergency partners to coordinate resources, share information, and prepare for potential developments, including the continued arrival of evacuees from surrounding communities.

The activation of the EOC does not mean Thunder Bay is at immediate risk. There remains no indication that the City will require an evacuation due to wildfire activity.

Wildfire activity continues across Northwestern Ontario, with evacuation orders and alerts remaining in effect for several communities northwest of the city. Many evacuees are currently being supported in Thunder Bay, and while local hotels have reached capacity, we are continuing to work alongside provincial partners and community organizations to assist those displaced by the fires.

Smoke from regional wildfires continues to impact Thunder Bay, and air quality remains at Very High Risk. Current forecasts indicate these conditions are expected to continue for at least the next 24 hours.

As a result, the City's temporary suspension of non-critical outdoor work and programming will remain in effect until at least Saturday at 11:59 p.m. This includes outdoor pools, splash pads, golf courses, beaches, outdoor recreation programming, public park washroom facilities, the Botanical Conservatory, and the Open Track at the Royal Canadian Legion Track.

Essential City services, including transit, emergency services, and critical public works operations, continue without interruption.

The City will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates as new information becomes available.

Residents are encouraged to:

• Continue limiting outdoor activity, particularly strenuous activity, whenever possible and to follow public health guidance until air quality improves
• Monitor the local Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)
• Use official sources for the latest information and avoid sharing unverified information

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.

Wildfire Update - July 16, 2026 - City Continues Temporary Service Suspensions as Poor Air Quality Persists

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) in Thunder Bay remains Very High Risk today as smoke from area wildfires continues to impact air quality in the city.

The suspension of non-critical City outdoor operations and programming will continue to protect the health and safety of both staff and participants.

In addition to the temporary measures announced yesterday, including the closure of outdoor pools, splash pads, beaches and golf courses, as well as adjustments to outdoor recreation programming and garbage collection, the following City facilities will also be closed, until at least Friday at 11:59 p.m.

• All public park washroom facilities
• The Centennial Botanical Conservatory

City staff are continuing to relocate programs and services indoors wherever possible.

Essential City services continue to operate without interruption including transit, emergency services, and other critical public works.

These temporary measures are being reviewed daily and will remain in effect only as long as necessary.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the local AQHI, limit their time outdoors, and avoid strenuous activity until the air quality improves.

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.

The City of Thunder Bay recognizes that the rapidly evolving wildfire situation and the heavy smoke affecting our community have caused concern for many residents. While conditions across the region remain serious, there is currently no indication that the City of Thunder Bay is at risk of evacuation.

We continue to work closely with emergency management partners as wildfires affect communities across Northwestern Ontario, and Thunder Bay continues to play an important role in supporting neighbouring communities. Evacuees from several communities have already arrived in the city, and additional evacuees may arrive in the coming days as the regional situation evolves.

As the City does what it can with limited resources, we encourage everyone to continue showing the compassion and generosity that Thunder Bay is known for. Many evacuees left their homes with little notice and are facing significant uncertainty. A kind word, a welcoming smile, and patience can make a meaningful difference.

Air Quality and City Services
The smoke from area wildfires continues to impact air quality in Thunder Bay and the current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for the city is Very High Risk, which recommends the reduction and rescheduling of all strenuous outdoor activities.

To ensure the safety of our workforce and to help protect public health, the City is temporarily suspending all non-critical outdoor operations and programming.

This includes the temporary closure of:

• All outdoor pools, beaches, and splash pads;
• Chapples and Strathcona Golf Courses;
• All Outdoor Marina Services

Parks and play fields remain available for use but residents should be aware that park amenities will not be staffed while these measures are in place.

Wherever possible, City staff are working to relocate programs and activities indoors.

While curbside residential garbage collection will continue, there may delays in service. Collection service will be temporarily suspended to businesses and multi-residential units.

Essential City services will continue without interruption including transit, emergency services, and other critical public works operations.

These measures will be reviewed daily and will remain in effect only as long as necessary.

Residents are encouraged to monitor the local AQHI and reduce or avoid prolonged outdoor activity when air quality is poor, particularly if they:

• are older adults, children or youth;
• are pregnant;
• have asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions; or
• experience symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, headaches, or irritated eyes.

Whenever possible:

• stay indoors with windows and doors closed;
• use air conditioning or air filtration if available;
• stay hydrated and limit strenuous outdoor activity; and
• check in on neighbours, friends, and family members who may need extra support.

More detailed information on the risks associated with poor air quality and ways you can protect yourself and your family, along with links to Environment Canada’s current AQHI can be found at www.tbdhu.com/outdoorair.

Get Information from Trusted Sources

While the smoke may make conditions appear alarming, it is important to remember that smoke does not necessarily indicate an immediate threat to the area.

Emergency responders, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the City of Thunder Bay and our partner agencies continue to monitor conditions around the clock. The best thing residents can do is stay informed, stay prepared, look after one another, and remain calm.

During emergencies, misinformation can spread quickly and contribute to unnecessary anxiety. Residents are encouraged to rely on official sources for the latest updates and to avoid sharing unverified information.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo

A number of active wildfires throughout the region have resulted in evacuation orders and alerts for several communities.

Residents from Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and Collins First Nation are currently seeking shelter in Thunder Bay.

In addition, residents of Upsala, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation, and the surrounding area, as well as those in the Ignace, Crystal Lake, and Atikokan areas remain under evacuation alert.

Closer to Thunder Bay, three wildfires are currently being addressed near Nolalu and South Gillies. The Ministry of Natural Resources is currently working to contain these fires.

At this time, there is no immediate threat to the City of Thunder Bay. However, wildfire conditions can change quickly, and residents are encouraged to remain informed and be prepared.

A fire ban remains in effect for the City of Thunder Bay and surrounding municipalities. Residents are reminded to respect the ban and avoid any activity that could increase the risk of wildfire. Even a single spark can have serious consequences during periods of extreme fire danger.

The City also encourages all residents to take a few simple steps to prepare for emergencies:

• Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit with essential medications, important documents, clothing, food, water and other necessities.
• Develop a household emergency and evacuation plan.
• Stay informed through official sources and follow instructions from emergency officials should conditions change.

As our community welcomes evacuees from across the region, the City also asks residents to extend patience, understanding, and kindness to those who have been forced to leave their homes. Many families have arrived with little notice and are facing uncertainty. A warm welcome and a helping hand can make a meaningful difference.

With temperatures expected to remain high, residents are also reminded to stay cool, stay hydrated, and check in on family members, neighbours, and others who may be more vulnerable to the heat.

The City will continue to work closely with its emergency partners and will provide updates as new information becomes available.

For the latest wildfire information, residents can view the current Smoke Forecast map at firesmoke.ca, and are encouraged to follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. The City has also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo.