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As of July 14, 2026
Our thoughts are with the residents, Indigenous communities, tourism operators, emergency responders, and all those working tirelessly to protect lives, property, businesses, and communities impacted by the ongoing wildfire situation in Northwestern Ontario.
Destination Northern Ontario and Nature and Outdoor Tourism Ontario are closely monitoring the evolving wildfire situation and the impacts it is having on communities and the tourism industry across the region.
We recognize that this situation has created significant challenges for tourism operators, with some businesses experiencing disruptions, cancellations, access challenges, and impacts to operations. Our thoughts are with the operators, employees, and communities directly affected, including those whose businesses, properties, and tourism assets have been damaged or lost by wildfire.
If your business is impacted by the wildfire situation:
- Stay connected with your local municipality, emergency management officials, Indigenous communities, and public safety agencies for the latest information affecting your area.
- Communicate directly with your guests, customers, and partners regarding current operating conditions, access, cancellations, and available alternatives. As local operators, you have the best understanding of your conditions and can provide the most accurate information.
- If appropriate, consider alternative experiences, routes, or destinations within Northern Ontario that remain accessible and open.
- If you have lost access to your Bear Management Area (BMA) or a camp on a Land Use Permit (LUP) due to wildfire, contact your local Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) District office to discuss eligibility for a refund of your fees for the current year.
- Continue to make decisions based on verified information and official updates, as conditions can change quickly.
The impacts of these fires have been significant, with some tourism operators experiencing major losses, including lodges, businesses, and tourism assets impacted or destroyed by wildfire.
Communities, local infrastructure, communications, and resources have been affected as emergency responders, municipalities, Indigenous communities, tourism operators, and residents work together through this challenging situation.
Effective Wednesday, July 15 at 12:01 a.m. (local time), a Restricted Fire Zone (RFZ) is in effect across the Northwest Region and parts of the Northeast Region. Open-air burning is prohibited within the boundaries of the RFZ.
Smoke from wildland fires in Northwestern Ontario and parts of the United States may also affect air quality across portions of Northeastern Ontario. Residents and travellers may notice smoke and haze as conditions change.
During emergencies, accurate information saves lives. Please avoid sharing rumours, speculation, or unverified information on social media. Instead, stay informed by relying on updates from the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR), local municipalities, emergency management officials, and other trusted public authorities.
For the latest wildfire information and travel advisories, please consult official sources:
Destination Northern Ontario and Nature and Outdoor Tourism Ontario will continue to monitor the situation and share updates as needed. We encourage everyone to respect all emergency measures and local restrictions, make responsible travel decisions, and support affected communities as recovery efforts continue.
NOTO is also waiting for an update from MNR’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services (AFFES) and we will share it as soon as we can with impacted operators.
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