Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Red Lake12 Wildfire Continues to Threaten Northern Ontario First Nations

Limited airstrip capacity in remote First Nations is hampering military support, hindering firefighting efforts against the 160,000-hectare blaze

Smoke from wildfires is shown at Sandy Lake First Nation, Ont., in this Saturday, June 7, 2025 handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - Destiny Rae *MANDATORY CREDIT*

Overview

  • The Red Lake12 wildfire has expanded to over 160,000 hectares with no containment in sight.
  • Nearly 2,000 people were evacuated from Sandy Lake First Nation; about 200 residents and fire rangers remain to guard community buildings.
  • Fire crews have successfully created a perimeter break around Deer Lake First Nation to protect homes and infrastructure.
  • Canadian Armed Forces deployed CC-130 Hercules transports; capacity was limited by small remote airstrips.
  • Lawmakers, including MPP Sol Mamakwa, are renewing calls for larger runways in remote First Nations to support future emergency operations.