Firefighters and water bombers are actively combating significant wildfires in Ontario, specifically in the Kawartha Lakes and Marmora and Lake regions. In Kawartha Lakes, officials reported that a forest fire in the Burnt River area has been burning since Friday. As of Sunday, approximately 27 hectares, or just over a quarter of a square kilometer, were engulfed in flames. City firefighters, along with the Trent Lakes Fire Service and multiple crews from the Ministry of Natural Resources, are engaged in firefighting efforts. Additional resources from North Bay are being deployed, and aerial water bombers are targeting the most active fire zones.

The fire is located in a heavily wooded area that has been compromised by ice storm damage, creating hazardous conditions for hose deployment. Although no evacuations have been ordered, city officials are advising residents and visitors to steer clear of the fire area. County Road 49 has been closed between County Road 121 and Bury’s Green Road to ensure safety.

Meanwhile, in Marmora and Lake, firefighters are working to control a wildfire that has consumed 12.9 hectares of forest. This fire is situated south of Coe Hill in Hastings County. The Municipality of Marmora and Lake confirmed that the Ministry of Natural Resources is actively monitoring wildfire HALO018, which is burning on Crown Land in the northern part of the municipality. Four water bombers are assisting ground crews in their efforts to contain the blaze.

Municipal officials have urged residents to stay clear of lakes when water bombers are present, allowing aircraft the necessary space to collect water. They also warned against operating drones near the fire zone, as drones pose a serious safety risk to firefighting operations. The Ministry of Natural Resources mandates that drones must remain at least 9 kilometers away from forest fires to avoid interfering with emergency responses.

Marmora and Lake Fire Services have noted that the threat of wildfires has intensified, and they are collaborating with the Ministry of Natural Resources, Hastings County, and neighboring municipalities to monitor the situation closely. Firefighters have emphasized the importance of keeping drone operations away from water bomber flights to ensure the safety and effectiveness of firefighting efforts.