Firefighters battle stubborn wildfire in Gravenhurst

Firefighters are battling a stubborn wildfire that broke out Monday afternoon in Gravenhurst.

Crews got the call shortly before 2 p.m. after smoke was spotted in a heavily forested area north of Beiers Road.

They worked late into the evening alongside firefighters from Ramara, Severn, and Muskoka Lakes, with waterbombers from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) making several air drops before nightfall.

The fire is estimated to be around five hectares in size and located in rough terrain. Despite the challenges, officials said crews managed to establish a good perimeter around the blaze Monday night to prevent it from spreading further.

Mother Nature also provided a little assistance with the rainfall overnight and into the morning.

“The fire remains active, and crews will be returning in the morning to continue suppression. Smoke will likely be prevalent in the area for the next couple of days,” the Gravenhurst Fire Department noted.

No cause has been determined, but fire officials remind the public fire season is not over. “No daytime burning should be undertaken, for any rules around burning people should check their local burn bylaws,” said Chief Jared Cayley.

Beiers Road will be closed to traffic Tuesday between Arthur Schulz Road and Southwood Road for tanker shuttle operations. Motorists are asked to find alternate routes.