Residents of Thunder Bay are mobilizing to assist evacuees displaced by wildfires in northwestern Ontario.Over a dozen communities, including Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation (Collins First Nation), and Gull Bay First Nation, have been evacuated due to escalating fires.

Evacuees are temporarily staying in hotels, university residences, and other accommodations, with donations of food, clothing, and essentials being collected at the Superior Inn Hotel and Conference Centre.

The Thunder Bay Police Service has launched a toy drive for children displaced by the crisis, aiming to provide comfort to families facing uncertainty.

City manager John Collin warned that hotel accommodations are nearly full, though contingency plans involving arenas and provincial collaboration are in place.Air quality remains poor due to smoke from nearby wildfires, prompting closures of outdoor facilities.

Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts potential improvement in smoke levels by Friday, but officials emphasize no immediate threat to Thunder Bay itself.The Anishinabek Nation is also accepting donations on behalf of Namaygoosisagagun after the community was entirely destroyed.