Description
Wildfire Update - July 15, 2026
We recognize that the rapidly evolving wildfire situation and the heavy smoke affecting our community have caused concern for many residents.
While conditions across the region remain serious, the city of Thunder Bay is currently not at risk of requiring evacuation.
The smoke may make conditions appear alarming, but it is important to remember that smoke does not necessarily indicate an immediate threat to the area.
However, the smoke from area wildfires is significantly impacting air quality in Thunder Bay, and the current Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for the city is Very High Risk, which recommends the reduction and rescheduling of all strenuous outdoor activities.
To ensure the safety of our workforce and to help protect public health, the City is temporarily suspending all non-critical outdoor operations and programming.
This includes the temporary closure of:
All outdoor pools, beaches, and splash pads;
Chapples and Strathcona Golf Courses;
All Outdoor Marina Services
Parks and play fields will remain available for use but residents should be aware that park amenities will not be staffed while these measures are in place. Wherever possible, City staff are working to relocate programs and activities indoors.
While curbside residential garbage collection will continue, there may delays in service. Collection service will be temporarily suspended to businesses and multi-residential units.
Essential City services will continue without interruption including transit, emergency services, and other critical public works operations.
These measures will be reviewed daily and will remain in effect only as long as necessary. Updates will be provided each day.
For the latest wildfire information, check out the current Smoke Forecast map at www.firesmoke.ca, and follow official updates from the Ministry of Natural Resources. We have also compiled a list of links to credible sources online that individuals may find useful which can be found at www.thunderbay.ca/fireinfo