Premier Ford Visits Thunder Bay Amid Northern Wildfire Crisis
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
Doug Ford meets with evacuees as dozens of out-of-control fires trigger evacuation orders for several Ontario communities.
Premier Doug Ford was in Thunder Bay on Saturday to meet with first responders and individuals displaced by northern Ontario wildfires, according to Global News Toronto. During the visit, Ford praised the efforts of the OPP, local Thunder Bay police, paramedics, and firefighters.
Reporting from Global News Toronto indicates that evacuation orders are currently in effect for several communities, including Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), Collins First Nation, Whitesand First Nation, and Armstrong. Ford told reporters that approximately 300 people, including campers, were recently rescued via 40 separate missions.
Providing a snapshot of the current crisis, Ford stated there are 191 active wildfires across the province, an increase of seven from the previous day. Of those, 91 are being observed and 73 are classified as out of control. To combat the blazes, the Premier noted that resources including 80 helicopters and water bombers, along with 155 crew members, have been deployed. Ford emphasized that the province is prioritizing resources where fire suppression can have the most significant impact on community safety.
Addressing those displaced, Ford urged evacuees to avoid returning to their homes or campsites to prevent hindering suppression efforts, promising that the province would provide food and hotel accommodations.