An evacuation order that forced all 192 residents of the Henvey Inlet First Nation to leave their homes late last month due to the Parry Sound 33 forest fire has been extended for a second time, to Aug. 10.
Henvey Inlet First Nation said in a press release it is grateful for the fire crews and support staff working on extinguishing the fire.
“The next couple of days will be a challenge for MNRF fire crews due to wind and dry conditions,” Chief Wayne McQuabbie said.
“So far, crews had good results combating the fire. Sprinkler systems are in place on every household and building in the community as a precautionary measure.”
Smoke from the forest fire is a concern for community residents and leadership. The blaze that began on July 18 is now estimated to measure over 11,000 hectares and is not under control.
In an update online, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry said that crews continue to make excellent progress in critical areas, especially along the northeast side of the fire near the Pickerel River.
According to the MNRF, the fire remains south of Key Harbour, and north of the Henvey Inlet waterway. Crews are working on perimeter containment on the southeast side of the fire north of Henvey Inlet.
Yesterday, waterbombers and helicopters worked in conjunction with crews to help tie off areas of activity.
McQuabbie said he extends his support to neighbouring communities also affected by the fire.
“We understand that fire crews are staving off the fire from jumping the Lower Pickerel River, and we’re hoping it doesn’t jump over where there is a higher density of residents and cottagers,” McQuabbie said.
