Hundreds of Wabaseemoong residents evacuated due to Kenora 51 fire
At least 485 residents of the Wabaseemoong Independent First Nations have been temporarily relocated to London, Ontario due to the threat of the Kenora 51 fire.
As of Tuesday has grown to 200,511 hectares in size, according to the Ministry of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. The fire is located approximately 20 kilometers north of the reserve.
On Monday, community members were told by Wabaseemoong’s Chief and Council to evacuate voluntarily to either London, Ontario or, if flying was an issue, to Wauzhushk Onigum First Nation near Kenora, Ontario.
The Chief and Council also stated in a release to the community that these are the only two options of evacuation at this time, and that both will be fully supported with medical, mental health, cultural, activities/entertainment, pharmacy, and all basic needs will be met.
Any members chosen to remain in the community were told they must have the ability to leave on short notice.
