The Ministry of Natural Resources has recommended a mandatory evacuation in the Key River area as a precaution due to the proximity of the Parry Sound 33 forest fire and the hot, dry and windy conditions.
This area is boat access only, and residents will be exiting the area using the nearby waterway.
Residents are being instructed to get in their boats and move upriver to Key Harbour Landing, then leave the area by vehicle.
The OPP and Conservation Officers are currently onsite helping notify the public of the situation, and facilitating this evacuation.
The situation is developing and more information will be released as it becomes available.
In an update issued early this afternoon, the province's Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services division said it will be an active day on the fireline today in the northeast region.
Hot and dry conditions, combined with moderate winds are expected throughout the day.
Parry Sound 33 is currently 384 hectares in size and not under control.
This fire was discovered July 18 and has since received a significant amount of aerial fire suppression over the last 2 days, with CL415 waterbombers overhead from early afternoon, well into the evening.
Fire crews have been actively working to suppress this fire and values protection (sprinklers on structures) has been initiated as a precautionary measure and will continue.
Smoke concerns
- Parry Sound 33 continues to create a significant amount of smoke along Hwy 69, south of Grundy Lake Provincial Park. Aerial fire suppression and ground crews are on site. It is expected that this 384 hectare fire will continue to create smoke in the days to come.
- Many Ontario residents have reported smoke drift in their communities. Smoky conditions are expected to continue when fires are active, until weather patterns change.
- AFFES is reminding the public that if they do see flames or smoke, please report it, and stay away from the area in the interest of public safety.
- If you have questions or concerns about smoke and your health, contact Tele Health Ontario at 1-866-797-0000.
