Crews Race to Contain Burnt River Forest Fire
Since Friday, August 9, 2025, firefighting crews have been locked in a determined battle against a fast-moving forest fire in the Burnt River area of Kawartha Lakes. The blaze, which has grown to cover about 27 hectares, remains active as of Sunday afternoon. Multiple stations from the Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue Service are on the scene, joined by crews from Trent Lakes Fire Service and specialized teams from the Ministry of Natural Resources’ Haliburton detachment. Extra manpower from North Bay is also being deployed to strengthen the response.
Aerial water bombers have been hammering the most aggressive fire zones, while tanker trucks continuously draw water from nearby lakes to feed the effort on the ground. This is no easy fight—thick forest, combined with debris left behind by a past ice storm, has created treacherous conditions that make it difficult for firefighters to maneuver and lay hoses effectively.
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Despite the fire’s intensity, there is no evacuation order in place at the moment. Officials stress that the situation is being watched around the clock, and updates will be provided as conditions change. For now, residents and visitors are being urged to steer clear of the Burnt River area entirely. County Road 49 remains closed between County Road 121 and Bury’s Green to keep people out of harm’s way and to allow emergency vehicles unrestricted access.
The City of Kawartha Lakes has expressed deep gratitude to all the outside agencies lending a hand during this challenging operation. This is already the third major fire in the region within just one week, and with extremely dry conditions gripping the area, resources are stretched thin. As a result, a total fire ban is in effect across Kawartha Lakes. Authorities are urging everyone to be vigilant: if smoke is spotted, it should be reported immediately to Kawartha Lakes Fire Rescue at 705-324-2191. And, as a firm reminder, flying drones near active fire zones is not only illegal—it poses serious dangers to both ground crews and aircraft working overhead.
The broader picture is equally concerning. Across Ontario’s Northeast Region, 16 wildfires are currently active, with some under control, others still burning out of control, and the remainder being monitored. Hazard levels range from low to extreme, with the highest risks in Haliburton, Bancroft, Kawartha Highlands, and the southern portion of the region.
For now, the Burnt River fire remains a stubborn and dangerous adversary. Crews are working tirelessly under challenging conditions, determined to bring the flames under control. The hope is that with continued teamwork, aerial support, and community cooperation, the fire will be contained before it threatens homes or escalates further. Until then, staying informed and staying away from the affected area is the best way to support those on the front lines.
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