Photo courtesy MNR Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services

Despite a busy month of June, the fire season in northwestern Ontario has been only slightly more active than usual.

Fire information officer Chris Marchand says rain this month has helped the forest fire situation a lot.

“About a month ago I’d say we were far above average, and as we approach the end of July, we’re catching up to the 10 year average that we would expect to see at this time of year,” states Marchand.

Marchand says the northwest has seen about 50 more wild fires this year than the 10 year average.

The ten year average is 444 forest fires for all of Ontario, and the province has seen 491 as of today.

Marchand adds with the rain and cooler temperatures fire crews have been able to bring a couple of large fires under control.

“Notable fires like Red Lake #28 and #29 which were located north of Lac Seul and Sioux Lookout #44 which was  near Lake St. Joseph.  Larger fires like that we have been actively suppressing, we’ve seen encouraging milestones on some of those larger fires.”

The fire hazard is low to moderate through much of the southern portion of the region, with areas of high hazard in the north.

(File photo)