Wildfire Crisis in Canada: Thousands Evacuated, Homes Lost
- Small Town Productions
- Jun 8
- 3 min read
As of early June 2025, Canada is grappling with one of its worst wildfire seasons in recent memory. With over 200 active fires, more than half remain out of control, scorching more than 2.6 million hectares (approximately 6.4 million acres) of land.
Ontario Wildfires
In northwestern Ontario, a major blaze near Kenora, known as “Kenora 20,” has consumed approximately 23,000 hectares (56,800 acres), forcing the evacuation of Wabaseemoong First Nation and nearby communities.
Over 800 people have been airlifted to shelters in Niagara Falls and Winnipeg.
Fires in the Sioux Lookout and Fort Frances areas have each burned between 2,000 to 3,200 hectares (4,940 to 7,910 acres), prompting travel restrictions and evacuation alerts.
The Canadian Armed Forces are assisting with evacuations in affected First Nations communities under federal direction.
Smoke from these fires has impacted air quality across southern Ontario, including major cities like Toronto and Ottawa.
Fires Across the Country
In Manitoba, more than 17,000 people have been evacuated, including the full population of Flin Flon (about 5,000 residents) and another 1,000 from Snow Lake.
Saskatchewan has seen the displacement of approximately 10,000 to 15,000 people, particularly from La Ronge and nearby areas.
In Alberta, around 1,300 residents have been forced to leave communities like Swan Hills and Grande Prairie, where 56 wildfires are currently burning (27 are classified as out of control).
Fires are also active in Quebec and Newfoundland and Labrador, although impacts have been less severe so far.
Homes Lost and Human Impact
More than 33,000 people have been displaced due to wildfires across Canada.
At least 428 structures, including homes, have been destroyed.
Tragically, two civilian deaths have been confirmed in Manitoba.
In Saskatchewan, two people have been charged with arson in connection to the fires.
Emergency Response and Evacuations
States of emergency have been declared in Manitoba and Saskatchewan.
Ontario has called in military support to assist with evacuations.
The United States has sent over 140 firefighters and multiple air tankers to help fight fires.
The Canadian Red Cross is operating shelters in cities such as
Winnipeg,
Niagara Falls
and Prince Albert
Smoke and Health Hazards
Smoke from the wildfires has affected air quality across Canada and parts of the United States, with some reports of smoke drifting as far as Europe.
Health authorities warn of increased risks for people with asthma, heart conditions, or respiratory issues.
Residents are advised to:
Remain indoors as much as possible
Use N95 masks when outdoors
Monitor Air Quality Index (AQI) updates
Run HEPA air filters or purifiers if available
Our Commitment
As part of our commitment to supporting rural communities in Canada, Small Town Productions will be contributing a large portion of all donations we receive through this article to those affected by the ongoing wildfires.
We believe in the power of community and will continue to support local recovery efforts through funding, coverage, and awareness, wherever possible.
Help Spread The News & Keep Each Other Informed
In times of emergency, communication is essential. Share official updates, check on your neighbours, and support those displaced by the fires. Staying informed and connected can help save lives.
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