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, will 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

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