Wildfires Persist Across Ontario: Air Quality Concerns Rise

As of June 2, 2025, Ontario is facing an active wildfire season, with 26 confirmed forest fires recorded so far this year, according to the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. These fires have collectively burned approximately 20 hectares of forest, with most activity concentrated in the province’s remote northern regions.

Among the notable fires, Cochrane 2 (located northwest of Attawapiskat) is now classified as “under control.” However, Cochrane 3, burning roughly 48 kilometers west of the same community, remains active and continues to be closely monitored by firefighting crews.

To reduce the risk of additional outbreaks, the province has implemented two Restricted Fire Zones (RFZs). RFZ 2025-001, declared on May 16, covers significant parts of the Northwest Region (zones 2, 3, 6, 7, and 8).

A second RFZ (2025-002) was added on May 30 and includes zones 4, 9, 10, and 11. Within these restricted zones, all open-air burning, including campfires, is banned, and all burning permits have been temporarily suspended.

While Ontario’s wildfire numbers remain below the 10-year average, the risk remains fluid and depends heavily on weather conditions, especially in the drier regions of the north. Wildfires continue to be a national concern, with over 1,377 fires recorded across Canada in 2025 throughout the different provinces, burning a staggering 1.58 million hectares of land so far.

Air Quality Warning

With wildfires burning across northern Ontario and elsewhere in Canada, residents are being cautioned about the possibility of deteriorating air quality. Smoke from wildfires can travel hundreds of kilometers and pose serious health risks — particularly to children, seniors, and individuals with respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD.

Environment Canada has issued special air quality statements in some affected areas, warning of elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in the air. People are advised to limit outdoor activities when smoke is visible and to check local air quality indices frequently.

Authorities continue to monitor conditions and urge the public to follow updates and adhere to all fire bans and advisories. Staying informed and prepared is key to staying safe during Ontario’s wildfire season.

Stay Informed. Stay Safe.

As wildfire conditions continue to evolve across Ontario, it's more important than ever to stay connected and informed. Keep track of local advisories, evacuation alerts, and air quality warnings through trusted sources like Ontario’s wildfire information website, municipal updates, and Environment Canada.

We also encourage residents to support one another— share updates, offer assistance where safe to do so, and help spread awareness within your communities. Whether it's a text, a phone call, or a post online, keeping your neighbours informed can make a real difference in safety and preparedness.

Together, we are stronger. Stay alert, stay safe, and look out for one another.

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