{"id":84666,"date":"2026-07-16T16:45:11","date_gmt":"2026-07-16T20:45:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/?p=84666"},"modified":"2026-07-17T07:48:04","modified_gmt":"2026-07-17T11:48:04","slug":"opp-nwr-mandatory-evacuation-for-armstrong-whitesand-first-nation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/2026\/07\/16\/opp-nwr-mandatory-evacuation-for-armstrong-whitesand-first-nation\/","title":{"rendered":"OPP NWR &#8211; Mandatory Evacuations &#038; Highway Closures (Bilingual) July 15, 7:30"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span id=\"timestamp\"><b>Jul 16, 2026 at 16:45<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">July 16, 3:25 p.m. EDT:<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">The following highways are still fully closed in both directions, with the exception of some local traffic evacuating the area:<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Highway 599 \u2013 between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Highway 527 \u2013 at Gull Bay First Nation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">The OPP is also advising drivers in the area to exercise caution, as smoky conditions have significantly reduced visibility on local highways.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">Wildfires are dynamic and unpredictable. Fire behaviour, including the size and direction of a wildfire, can change rapidly due to weather conditions and other factors which can result in further closures.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">Updates will be provided on road closures as information changes.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">16 juillet, 15 h 25 HAE:<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">Les autoroutes suivantes sont toujours compl\u00e8tement ferm\u00e9es dans les deux sens, sauf pour certains v\u00e9hicules locaux qui quittent la r\u00e9gion :<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Autoroute 599 \u2013 entre l\u2019autoroute 516 et la Premi\u00e8re Nation de Mishkeegogamang<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Autoroute 527 \u2013 \u00e0 la Premi\u00e8re Nation de Gull Bay<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">L&#8217;OPP conseille aussi aux conducteurs de la r\u00e9gion de faire preuve de prudence, car la fum\u00e9e r\u00e9duit consid\u00e9rablement la visibilit\u00e9 sur les routes locales.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">Les feux de for\u00eat sont dynamiques et impr\u00e9visibles. Le comportement du feu, notamment sa taille et sa direction, peut changer rapidement en raison des conditions m\u00e9t\u00e9orologiques et d\u2019autres facteurs, ce qui peut entra\u00eener d\u2019autres fermetures.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">On te tiendra au courant des fermetures de routes au fur et \u00e0 mesure que les infos changeront.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div>\n<p><span id=\"timestamp\"><b>Jul 15, 2026 at 07:30<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"css-1jxf684 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-poiln3\">UPDATE (July 15, 5:25 a.m. EDT): NWR OPP continues to monitor the ongoing wildfires in the region alongside the Ministry of Natural Resources and other partner agencies. Updates will continue to be shared on NWR OPP social media pages as new information becomes available. We thank community members for their patience and understanding as partner agencies work together to monitor evolving conditions and respond to affected areas. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"css-1jxf684 r-bcqeeo r-1ttztb7 r-qvutc0 r-poiln3\">MISE \u00c0 JOUR (15 juillet, 5 h 25 HAE) : La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario de la r\u00e9gion du Nord-Ouest continue de surveiller les feux de for\u00eat qui font rage dans la r\u00e9gion, en collaboration avec le minist\u00e8re des Ressources naturelles et d\u2019autres organismes partenaires. Des mises \u00e0 jour continueront d\u2019\u00eatre publi\u00e9es sur les pages des m\u00e9dias sociaux de la Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario de la r\u00e9gion du Nord-Ouest d\u00e8s que de nouvelles informations seront disponibles. Nous remercions les membres de la collectivit\u00e9 pour leur patience et leur compr\u00e9hension pendant que les organismes partenaires travaillent ensemble pour surveiller l\u2019\u00e9volution de la situation et intervenir dans les zones touch\u00e9es. <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>UPDATE (July 14, 10:15 p.m. EDT):<\/strong> NWR OPP is continuing to assist the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) in several northwestern communities as wildfires continue to threaten the following areas:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><strong>Armstrong*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Collins First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation* (Lac La Croix First Nation)<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Gull Bay First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Whitesand First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li>Ignace<\/li>\n<li>Pickle Lake<\/li>\n<li>Rainy River District &#8211; Quetico, Crystal lake, Atikokan and Niobi Lake area<\/li>\n<li>Upsala<br \/>\n<em><strong>* under evacuation<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition, the following highways are fully closed in both directions, with the exception of some local traffic evacuating the area:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Highway 599<\/span> \u2013 <\/strong>between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Highway 527<\/span> \u2013 <\/strong>between Gull Bay First Nation and Armstrong<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The following highway has been reopened, however wildfire crews may be present in the area. Motorists are urged to drive with caution and avoid non-essential travel.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><span style=\"color: #339966;\"><strong>Highway 11<\/strong><\/span> \u2013 between Highway 633 and 623<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The OPP reminds the public that wildfires are dynamic and unpredictable. Fire behaviour, including the size and direction of a wildfire, can change rapidly due to weather conditions and other factors.<\/p>\n<p>For your safety and the safety of emergency responders, people are strongly urged to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay away from affected areas and refrain from attending wildfire scenes to take photos or videos<\/li>\n<li>Avoid boating and standing where water bombers are actively fighting the fire so they can safely complete water drops<\/li>\n<li>Remain calm and follow all evacuation orders and emergency instructions issued by local authorities<\/li>\n<li>Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas<\/li>\n<li>Monitor official sources for the latest information and evacuation updates<\/li>\n<li>Remain away from evacuated areas until authorities have advised it is safe to return<\/li>\n<li>Help keep roadways clear so emergency personnel can carry out their work safely and effectively<\/li>\n<li>If evacuating, bring essential medications, identification, important documents, mobile devices and chargers, and any items required to support the needs of family members and pets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The OPP recognizes the significant impact evacuations and wildfires can have on individuals, families and communities. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this challenging time, particularly those who have been forced to leave their homes and communities. The OPP remains committed to working alongside emergency management officials, Indigenous communities, municipal partners and the MNR to support evacuation efforts, protect lives and property, and help ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors throughout the region.<\/p>\n<p>For information on the coordinated emergency response, contact the affected municipalities.<\/p>\n<p>Health-related questions can be directed to the Northwestern Health Unit for the Kenora District at 1-800-830-5978, or the Thunder Bay District Health Unit at 807-625-5900.<\/p>\n<p>For up-to-date information on road closures, visit http:\/\/511on.ca<br \/>\nor call the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) at 1-800-268-4686 or http:\/\/511on.ca<br \/>\n. Please only call 9-1-1 in an emergency \u2013 do not call 9-1-1 for information regarding road closures. ^pia<\/p>\n<p>~~~~~<\/p>\n<p>MISE \u00c0 JOUR (14 juillet, 22 h 15 HAE) : La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario (Police provinciale) de la r\u00e9gion du Nord-Ouest continue d\u2019apporter son aide au minist\u00e8re des Ressources naturelles (MNR) dans plusieurs collectivit\u00e9s du nord-ouest, alors que les feux de for\u00eat continuent de menacer les r\u00e9gions suivantes :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><strong>Armstrong*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Collins First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation* (Lac La Croix First Nation)<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Gull Bay First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong>Whitesand First Nation*<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<li>Ignace<\/li>\n<li>Pickle Lake<\/li>\n<li>Rainy River District &#8211; Quetico, Crystal lake, Atikokan and Niobi Lake area<\/li>\n<li>Upsala<br \/>\n<em><strong>* en cours d\u2019\u00e9vacuation<\/strong><\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>De plus, les routes suivantes sont enti\u00e8rement ferm\u00e9es dans les deux sens, \u00e0 l\u2019exception du trafic local visant \u00e0 \u00e9vacuer la r\u00e9gion :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\"><strong>Route 599<\/strong><\/span> \u2013 entre la route 516 et la Premi\u00e8re Nation de Mishkeegogamang<\/em><\/li>\n<li><em><strong><span style=\"color: #ff0000;\">Route 527<\/span><\/strong> \u2013 entre la Premi\u00e8re Nation de Gull Bay et Armstrong<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>La r\u00e9ouverture de l\u2019autoroute suivante a lieu; toutefois, des \u00e9quipes de lutte contre les feux de for\u00eat pourraient \u00eatre pr\u00e9sentes dans la r\u00e9gion. On recommande vivement aux automobilistes de conduire avec prudence et d\u2019\u00e9viter tout d\u00e9placement non essentiel.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><em><strong>Autoroute 11<\/strong> \u2013 entre les autoroutes 633 et 623<\/em><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario rappelle au public que les feux de for\u00eat sont dynamiques et impr\u00e9visibles. Le comportement du feu, notamment son ampleur et sa direction, peut changer rapidement en raison des conditions m\u00e9t\u00e9orologiques et d\u2019autres facteurs.<\/p>\n<p>Pour votre s\u00e9curit\u00e9 et celle des intervenants d\u2019urgence, il est fortement recommand\u00e9 de :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Rester \u00e0 l\u2019\u00e9cart des zones touch\u00e9es et de ne pas vous pr\u00e9senter sur les lieux des feux de for\u00eat pour prendre des photos ou des vid\u00e9os<\/li>\n<li>\u00c9viter de naviguer et de vous tenir \u00e0 proximit\u00e9 des endroits o\u00f9 les avions-citernes combattent activement le feu, afin qu\u2019ils puissent effectuer leurs largages en toute s\u00e9curit\u00e9<\/li>\n<li>Garder votre calme et respecter tous les ordres d\u2019\u00e9vacuation et les directives d\u2019urgence \u00e9mis par les autorit\u00e9s locales<\/li>\n<li>\u00c9viter tout d\u00e9placement non essentiel dans les zones touch\u00e9es<\/li>\n<li>Consulter les sources officielles pour obtenir les derni\u00e8res informations et mises \u00e0 jour concernant les \u00e9vacuations<\/li>\n<li>Rester \u00e0 l\u2019\u00e9cart des zones \u00e9vacu\u00e9es jusqu\u2019\u00e0 ce que les autorit\u00e9s indiquent qu\u2019il est s\u00e9curitaire d\u2019y retourner<\/li>\n<li>Contribuer \u00e0 d\u00e9gager les chauss\u00e9es afin que le personnel d\u2019urgence puisse effectuer son travail de mani\u00e8re s\u00e9curitaire et efficace<\/li>\n<li>En cas d\u2019\u00e9vacuation, emporter les m\u00e9dicaments essentiels, une pi\u00e8ce d\u2019identit\u00e9, les documents importants, les appareils mobiles et leurs chargeurs, ainsi que tout ce qui est n\u00e9cessaire pour subvenir aux besoins des membres de la famille et des animaux de compagnie<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario reconna\u00eet l\u2019impact consid\u00e9rable que les \u00e9vacuations et les feux de for\u00eat peuvent avoir sur les personnes, les familles et les collectivit\u00e9s. Nos pens\u00e9es vont \u00e0 toutes les personnes touch\u00e9es en cette p\u00e9riode difficile, en particulier \u00e0 celles qui ont \u00e9t\u00e9 contraintes de quitter leur domicile et leur collectivit\u00e9. La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario reste d\u00e9termin\u00e9e \u00e0 collaborer avec les responsables de la gestion des urgences, les communaut\u00e9s Autochtones, les partenaires municipaux et le minist\u00e8re des Ressources naturelles et de la Protection civile (MNR) afin de soutenir les efforts d\u2019\u00e9vacuation, de prot\u00e9ger les vies et les biens, et de contribuer \u00e0 assurer la s\u00e9curit\u00e9 et le bien-\u00eatre des r\u00e9sidents et des visiteurs dans toute la r\u00e9gion.<\/p>\n<p>Pour obtenir des renseignements sur l\u2019intervention d\u2019urgence coordonn\u00e9e, communiquez avec les municipalit\u00e9s touch\u00e9es.<\/p>\n<p>Les questions d\u2019ordre sanitaire peuvent \u00eatre adress\u00e9es \u00e0 l\u2019Unit\u00e9 de sant\u00e9 du Nord-Ouest pour le district de Kenora au 1-800-830-5978, ou \u00e0 l\u2019Unit\u00e9 de sant\u00e9 du district de Thunder Bay au 807-625-5900.<\/p>\n<p>Pour obtenir des renseignements \u00e0 jour sur les fermetures de routes, consultez le site http:\/\/511on.ca<br \/>\nou communiquez avec le Minist\u00e8re des Transports au 1-800-268-4686 ou au http:\/\/511on.ca<br \/>\n. Veuillez n\u2019appeler le 9-1-1 qu\u2019en cas d\u2019urgence \u2013 n\u2019appelez pas le 9-1-1 pour obtenir des renseignements concernant les fermetures de routes.<\/p>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div>\n<p><span id=\"timestamp\"><b>Jul 14, 2026 at 23:00<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p>22:00 &#8211; One highway has reopened and another community is under evacuation as wildfire support in the region continues.<\/p>\n<p>Members of the North West Region Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to support the Ministry of Natural Resources with the response to ongoing wildfires in the areas of Rainy River District, Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Collins First Nation, Gull Bay First Nation, Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation and surrounding area, Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation (Lac La Croix First Nation), Pickle Lake, Ignace and Upsala.<\/p>\n<p><strong>In addition to mandatory evacuation orders in several communities, the OPP is also supporting Gull Bay First Nation with a mandatory evacuation, in effect as of this evening.<\/strong> Individuals living in this area have been asked to leave their residence immediately and seek safety away from active fires. Other communities are being monitored, and residents are urged to stay informed and be prepared to act quickly should further evacuation orders or advisories be issued. Additional information will be issued as it becomes available.<\/p>\n<p><strong>In addition, Highway 11 between Highway 633 and Highway 623 has reopened to traffic.<\/strong> However wildfire suppression crews may still be working in the area. Motorists are urged to drive with caution, be prepared for the presence of emergency personnel and equipment, and are being asked to avoid non-essential travel.<\/p>\n<p>The following road closures remain in effect:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Highway 527 &#8211; between Gull Bay First Nation and Armstrong<\/li>\n<li>Highway 599 -between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The OPP North West Region Headquarters has deployed Aviation Services, the Emergency Response Team, the Provincial Liaison Team and Operational Support teams to support the MNR and communities affected by the ongoing wildfires. Working closely with community and policing partners, officers are assisting with evacuations, enforcing road closures and helping to ensure public safety in impacted areas.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>STAYING SAFE AMID WILDFIRES AND EVACUATIONS<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The OPP reminds the public that wildfires are dynamic and unpredictable. Fire behaviour, including the size and direction of a wildfire, can change rapidly due to weather conditions and other factors.<\/p>\n<p>For their safety and the safety of emergency responders, members of the public and media are strongly urged to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay away from affected areas and refrain from attending wildfire scenes to take photos or videos<\/li>\n<li>Remain calm and follow all evacuation orders and emergency instructions issued by local authorities<\/li>\n<li>Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas<\/li>\n<li>Monitor official sources for the latest information and evacuation updates<\/li>\n<li>Remain away from evacuated areas until authorities have advised it is safe to return<\/li>\n<li>Help keep roadways clear so emergency personnel can carry out their work safely and effectively<\/li>\n<li>If evacuating, bring essential medications, identification, important documents, mobile devices and chargers, and any items required to support the needs of family members and pets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The OPP recognizes the significant impact evacuations and wildfires can have on individuals, families and communities. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this challenging time, particularly those who have been forced to leave their homes and communities. The OPP remains committed to working alongside emergency management officials, Indigenous communities, municipal partners and the MNR to support evacuation efforts, protect lives and property, and help ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors throughout the region.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><strong>SOURCES OF OFFICIAL INFORMATION<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Media and the public seeking information on the fire suppression and management efforts should contact the Ministry of Natural Resources Fire at 1-888-258-8842. For information on the coordinated emergency response, contact the affected municipalities.<\/p>\n<p>Health-related questions can be directed to the Northwestern Health Unit for the Kenora District at 1-800-830-5978, or the Thunder Bay District Health Unit at 807-625-5900.<\/p>\n<p>For up-to-date information on road closures, visit 511on.ca or call the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) at 1-800-268-4686 or 511on.ca. Please only call 9-1-1 in an emergency &#8211; <strong>do not call 9-1-1 for information regarding road closures. <\/strong><\/p>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>Jul 14, 2026 at 14:55<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>14:45<\/strong> We are continuing to assist the Ministry of Natural Resources Fire (MNRF) with evacuation efforts in several northwestern communities, as wildfires continue to threaten the following areas:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Rainy River District<\/li>\n<li><strong>Armstrong*<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Whitesand First Nation*<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Collins First Nation*<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Gull Bay First Nation<\/li>\n<li><strong>Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation*<\/strong><\/li>\n<li>Gakijiwanong Anishinaabe Nation* (Lac La Croix First Nation)<\/li>\n<li>Pickle Lake<\/li>\n<li>Ignace<\/li>\n<li>Upsala<br \/>\n<strong>* under mandatory evacuation order<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition, the following highways have closures in place:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Highway 11 \u2013 between Highway 633 and 623<\/li>\n<li>Highway 599 \u2013 southbound closed between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation<\/li>\n<li>Highway 527 \u2013 northbound at Gull Bay First Nation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The OPP reminds the public that wildfires are dynamic and unpredictable. Fire behaviour, including the size and direction of a wildfire, can change rapidly due to weather conditions and other factors.<br \/>\nFor their safety and the safety of emergency responders, members of the public and media are strongly urged to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay away from affected areas and refrain from attending wildfire scenes to take photos or videos<\/li>\n<li>Avoid boating and standing where water bombers are actively fighting the fire so they can safely complete water drops<\/li>\n<li>Remain calm and follow all evacuation orders and emergency instructions issued by local authorities<\/li>\n<li>Avoid non-essential travel in affected areas<\/li>\n<li>Monitor official sources for the latest information and evacuation updates<\/li>\n<li>Remain away from evacuated areas until authorities have advised it is safe to return<\/li>\n<li>Help keep roadways clear so emergency personnel can carry out their work safely and effectively<\/li>\n<li>If evacuating, bring essential medications, identification, important documents, mobile devices and chargers, and any items required to support the needs of family members and pets<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The OPP recognizes the significant impact evacuations and wildfires can have on individuals, families and communities. Our thoughts are with everyone affected during this challenging time, particularly those who have been forced to leave their homes and communities. The OPP remains committed to working alongside emergency management officials, Indigenous communities, municipal partners and the MNRF to support evacuation efforts, protect lives and property, and help ensure the safety and well-being of residents and visitors throughout the region.<\/p>\n<p>For information on the coordinated emergency response, contact the affected municipalities.<br \/>\nHealth-related questions can be directed to the Northwestern Health Unit for the Kenora District at 1-800-830-5978, or the Thunder Bay District Health Unit at 807-625-5900.<\/p>\n<p>For up-to-date information on road closures, visit http:\/\/511on.ca<br \/>\nor call the Ministry of Transportation (MTO) at 1-800-268-4686 or http:\/\/511on.ca. Please only call 9-1-1 in an emergency \u2013 do not call 9-1-1 for information regarding road closures.<\/p>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div>\n<p><span id=\"timestamp\"><b>Jul 14, 2026 at 05:42<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<p><strong>5:30 a.m:<\/strong><br \/>\nNWR OPP continues to advise the public of mandatory evacuation orders in the following areas due to ongoing forest fires:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>\u00a0Armstrong<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Collins First Nation<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Cushing Lake<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Lac des Mille Lacs First Nation and nearby communities<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Whitesand First Nation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you are in these communities and need assistance evacuation, please call 9-1-1.<\/p>\n<p>Residents in the following areas are encouraged to prepare for a possible evacuation due to the evolving wildfire situation:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ignace<\/li>\n<li>Crystal Lake<\/li>\n<li>Highway 633 area<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>No evacuation order is currently in place for these areas, however, residents in some locations may have been directly advised by emergency personnel to evacuate as a precaution. Please continue to monitor for any updates.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, the following road closures remain in place:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Highway 11 &#8211; all lanes closed between Highway 633 and Highway 623 (east of Atikokan)<\/li>\n<li>Highway 599 &#8211; southbound closed between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>NWR OPP is urging the public to say informed and plan ahead.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Stay up to date on current fire conditions in your area: https:\/\/ontario.ca\/page\/forest-fi<br \/>\nres<\/li>\n<li>If you are evacuating, remember to pack essential items, such as medications, identification, passports, and important documents<\/li>\n<li>Follow all evacuation orders, road closures, and instructions from emergency officials<\/li>\n<li>Keep a safe distance from emergency crews and aircrafts so they can carry out their work effectively<\/li>\n<li>In an emergency, call 9-1-1. For non-emergent police matters, please call 1-888-310-1122. ^pia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>5 h 30: La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario de la r\u00e9gion du Nord-Ouest (NWR OPP) continue d\u2019informer la population des ordonnances d\u2019\u00e9vacuation obligatoires en vigueur dans les r\u00e9gions suivantes en raison des feux de for\u00eat en cours :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Armstrong<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Premi\u00e8re Nation de Collins<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong> Lac Cushing<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Premi\u00e8re Nation du Lac des Mille Lacs et collectivit\u00e9s avoisinantes<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Premi\u00e8re Nation de Whitesand<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Si vous vous trouvez dans l\u2019une de ces collectivit\u00e9s et avez besoin d\u2019aide pour \u00e9vacuer, veuillez composer le 9-1-1.<\/p>\n<p>Les r\u00e9sidents des r\u00e9gions suivantes sont invit\u00e9s \u00e0 se pr\u00e9parer \u00e0 une \u00e9ventuelle \u00e9vacuation en raison de l\u2019\u00e9volution de la situation li\u00e9e aux feux de for\u00eat :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ignace<\/li>\n<li>Crystal Lake<\/li>\n<li>R\u00e9gion de l\u2019autoroute 633<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Aucun arr\u00eat\u00e9 d\u2019\u00e9vacuation n\u2019est actuellement en vigueur pour ces r\u00e9gions; toutefois, les r\u00e9sidents de certaines localit\u00e9s ont peut-\u00eatre re\u00e7u directement des services d\u2019urgence la consigne d\u2019\u00e9vacuer par mesure de pr\u00e9caution. Veuillez continuer \u00e0 suivre les mises \u00e0 jour.<\/p>\n<p>De plus, les fermetures de routes suivantes sont toujours en vigueur :<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Route 11 \u2013 toutes les voies sont ferm\u00e9es entre la route 633 et la route 623 (\u00e0 l\u2019est d\u2019Atikokan)<\/li>\n<li>Route 599 \u2013 direction sud ferm\u00e9e entre la route 516 et la Premi\u00e8re Nation de Mishkeegogamang<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario (Police provinciale) de la r\u00e9gion NWR exhorte la population \u00e0 se tenir inform\u00e9e et \u00e0 planifier \u00e0 l\u2019avance.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tenez-vous au courant de la situation actuelle des feux dans votre r\u00e9gion : https:\/\/ontario.ca\/page\/forest-fi<br \/>\nres<\/li>\n<li>Si vous devez \u00e9vacuer, n\u2019oubliez pas d\u2019emporter les articles essentiels, tels que les m\u00e9dicaments, vos pi\u00e8ces d\u2019identit\u00e9, vos passeports et vos documents importants<\/li>\n<li>Respectez tous les ordres d\u2019\u00e9vacuation, les fermetures de route et les directives des responsables des urgences<\/li>\n<li>Gardez une distance de s\u00e9curit\u00e9 par rapport aux \u00e9quipes d\u2019intervention et aux a\u00e9ronefs afin qu\u2019ils puissent mener \u00e0 bien leur travail<\/li>\n<li>En cas d\u2019urgence, composez le 9-1-1. Pour les questions polici\u00e8res non urgentes, veuillez composer le 1-888-310-1122. ^pia<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div>\n<p><strong>July 13, 10:25 p.m.<\/strong><\/p>\n<div dir=\"auto\">NWR OPP is advising the public of mandatory evacuation orders in the following areas due to ongoing forest fires:<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\"><strong>Armstrong<\/strong><\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\"><strong>Whitesand First Nation<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">The following communities are monitoring the evolving situation. Updates will be provided as information becomes available:<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Ignace<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<div dir=\"auto\">Emergency crews are on-site to help facilitate evacuations. If you are in these communities and need assistance evacuation, please call 9-1-1. For non-emergent police matters, please call 1-888-310-1122.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">In addition, the following road closures are currently in place:<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Highway 11 &#8211; all lanes closed between Highway 633 and Highway 623 (east of Atikokan)<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Highway 599 &#8211; southbound closed between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">NWR OPP is urging the public to say informed and plan ahead.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Stay up to date on current fire conditions in your area: <span class=\"html-span xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs\"><a class=\"x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n x18oe1m7 x1sy0etr xstzfhl x972fbf x10w94by x1qhh985 x14e42zd x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 x3ct3a4 xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xkrqix3 x1sur9pj x1fey0fg x1s688f\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" href=\"https:\/\/l.facebook.com\/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ontario.ca%2Fpage%2Fforest-fires%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExREQwRHdhZjJXQ0V2M0dFSHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5JPDAXav6_mL_Dn4X19RZpOFbilC7YVaRWozYMQMNoUCpWy5KPDLjtS0E2kg_aem_rIRxSGsgWZrQGFKBjJ4K3A&amp;h=AUBzsGTH__c4JZCUi_OgmNjfg4jesUPkh18ENTFloAgAWM1mCkSl_yxKkfl_e8kt26_OL5hXTRJ7-OiZcujwbE60r2Bq0Sfe8jhWtjPEMJAkOamu0g6Qaw_hMoQFN80IFJQxh-jahoqosBZmVSg1nIxS1N76bG71b1I&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AUB8I7c1TK2hase-VdfbkN0P16OZvzz8Ww3_GrimbQc7afWQvgQwUNhXqKV6Fh_CPPIZRSad-3KjJ8opLcDzKFlcFS_IGqo-q_ulQ4M1AkBnjcStOnIrQeI-0TrF7TN_ENDbOHeyu2C6EiW9u1g2kSnsAo1fq4uKogV3Teasdk3H1glFxBye5e1vnJhC11PFWXMQwSOcb8zBGNkI4Nh8AzQAYQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/www.ontario.ca\/page\/forest-fires<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">If you are evacuating, remember to pack essential items, such as medications, identification, passports, and important documents<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Follow all evacuation orders, road closures, and instructions from emergency officials<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Keep a safe distance from emergency crews and aircrafts so they can carry out their work effectively<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><div class=\"clear\"><\/div><div class=\"divider\"><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">13 juillet, 22 h 25:<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario de la r\u00e9gion nord-ouest informe la population que des ordonnances d\u2019\u00e9vacuation obligatoires ont \u00e9t\u00e9 \u00e9mises dans les r\u00e9gions suivantes en raison des feux de for\u00eat en cours :<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\"><strong>Armstrong<\/strong><\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\"><strong>Premi\u00e8re Nation de Whitesand<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">Les collectivit\u00e9s suivantes surveillent l\u2019\u00e9volution de la situation. Des mises \u00e0 jour seront fournies d\u00e8s que de l\u2019information sera disponible :<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Ignace<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\">Les \u00e9quipes d\u2019urgence sont sur place pour faciliter les \u00e9vacuations. Si vous vous trouvez dans ces collectivit\u00e9s et avez besoin d\u2019aide pour \u00e9vacuer, veuillez composer le 9-1-1. Pour les questions polici\u00e8res non urgentes, veuillez composer le 1-888-310-1122.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">De plus, les fermetures de routes suivantes sont actuellement en vigueur :<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Route 11 \u2013 toutes les voies sont ferm\u00e9es entre la route 633 et la route 623 (\u00e0 l\u2019est d\u2019Atikokan)<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Route 599 \u2013 direction sud ferm\u00e9e entre la route 516 et la Premi\u00e8re Nation de Mishkeegogamang<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak x1vvkbs xtlvy1s x126k92a\">\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\">La Police provinciale de l\u2019Ontario de la r\u00e9gion du Nord-Ouest invite le public \u00e0 se tenir inform\u00e9 et \u00e0 planifier \u00e0 l\u2019avance.<\/div>\n<div dir=\"auto\"><\/div>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Tenez-vous au courant de la situation actuelle des feux dans votre r\u00e9gion : <span class=\"html-span xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x1hl2dhg x16tdsg8 x1vvkbs\"><a class=\"x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n x18oe1m7 x1sy0etr xstzfhl x972fbf x10w94by x1qhh985 x14e42zd x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 x3ct3a4 xdj266r x14z9mp xat24cr x1lziwak xexx8yu xyri2b x18d9i69 x1c1uobl x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz xkrqix3 x1sur9pj x1fey0fg x1s688f\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"link\" href=\"https:\/\/l.facebook.com\/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ontario.ca%2Fpage%2Fforest-fires%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExREQwRHdhZjJXQ0V2M0dFSHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5tutg4_h7WY30NCDkJ1gEFkjwo5VkRQL5VYaB041aSc3jmLVWKWj5gzhfNDg_aem_ELirde9GFkEEZ57GQ6tj2g&amp;h=AUBzsGTH__c4JZCUi_OgmNjfg4jesUPkh18ENTFloAgAWM1mCkSl_yxKkfl_e8kt26_OL5hXTRJ7-OiZcujwbE60r2Bq0Sfe8jhWtjPEMJAkOamu0g6Qaw_hMoQFN80IFJQxh-jahoqosBZmVSg1nIxS1N76bG71b1I&amp;__tn__=-UK-R&amp;c[0]=AUB8I7c1TK2hase-VdfbkN0P16OZvzz8Ww3_GrimbQc7afWQvgQwUNhXqKV6Fh_CPPIZRSad-3KjJ8opLcDzKFlcFS_IGqo-q_ulQ4M1AkBnjcStOnIrQeI-0TrF7TN_ENDbOHeyu2C6EiW9u1g2kSnsAo1fq4uKogV3Teasdk3H1glFxBye5e1vnJhC11PFWXMQwSOcb8zBGNkI4Nh8AzQAYQ\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/www.ontario.ca\/page\/forest-fires<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Si vous devez \u00e9vacuer, n\u2019oubliez pas d\u2019emporter les articles essentiels, tels que les m\u00e9dicaments, vos pi\u00e8ces d\u2019identit\u00e9, vos passeports et vos documents importants<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Respectez tous les ordres d\u2019\u00e9vacuation, les fermetures de routes et les directives des responsables des urgences<\/li>\n<li dir=\"auto\">Gardez une distance de s\u00e9curit\u00e9 par rapport aux \u00e9quipes d\u2019intervention et aux a\u00e9ronefs afin qu\u2019ils puissent mener \u00e0 bien leur travail<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Jul 16, 2026 at 16:45 July 16, 3:25 p.m. EDT: The following highways are still fully closed in both directions, with the exception of some local traffic evacuating the area: Highway 599 \u2013 between Highway 516 and Mishkeegogamang First Nation Highway 527 \u2013 at Gull Bay First Nation The OPP is also advising drivers in &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":15,"featured_media":84667,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3408],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-84666","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ner-forest-fire-updates"],"publishpress_future_action":{"enabled":false,"date":"2026-08-13 22:24:53","action":"change-status","newStatus":"draft","terms":[],"taxonomy":"category","extraData":[]},"publishpress_future_workflow_manual_trigger":{"enabledWorkflows":[]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/84666","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/15"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=84666"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/84666\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":84852,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/84666\/revisions\/84852"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/84667"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=84666"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=84666"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/wawa-news.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=84666"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}