Firefighters fight forest fires over Atlantic provinces while Hurricane brings strong winds
Firefighters in Nova Scotia Prepare for Approaching Hurricane
A Waterdring flyer flies over the evacuation area where firefighters fight against the Long Lake Wildfire in Annapolis County in Nova Scotia.
Darren Calabrese/The Canadian Press
Firefighting officials in Nova Scotia are closely monitoring an approaching hurricane, which is expected to pass well offshore but bring strong gusts of wind on Friday.
During a briefing on Thursday, officials reported that three forest fires are currently burning in the region, with the Long Lake Wildfire in the Annapolis Valley being the largest at over 32 square kilometers. This wildfire remains out of control and is threatening homes in the community of West Dalhousie.
Scott Tingley from the Department of Natural Resources stated, “We are closely monitoring the storm, which is expected to pass south of the province starting tomorrow and into the weekend. We anticipate shifts in wind direction and increased wind speeds as the storm passes, which is a major focus for our firefighting crews.”
Tingley also mentioned that ground command teams will assess weather information to determine the safest areas for firefighters to combat the flames. “The safety of our firefighters is paramount. Weather data guides them on resource placement and strategies to contain the fire’s growth in alignment with wind patterns,” he explained.
Jim Rudderham, another official from the department, emphasized that crews will be prepared to evacuate areas if wind shifts pose significant risks. “Their safety is our top priority, and they are trained to exit dangerous situations if necessary,” Rudderham stated.
Vancouver Island Fire, BC’s only natural fire fire, no longer out of hand
Efforts are currently underway to construct firebreaks on the northern perimeter of the Long Lake Fire, with air tankers, helicopters, and a team of firefighters from various regions assisting in suppression activities. Newfoundland, Labrador, and New Brunswick are also actively combating forest fires.
Newfoundland’s Wildfire near Kingston in Conception Bay North displayed reduced intensity on Thursday, while New Brunswick reported five ongoing wildfires that are still uncontained.
As part of the relief efforts, the federal government announced a donation-matching initiative with the Canadian Red Cross to support wildfire relief. Donations made within a 30-day period will be matched by the government to aid in the recovery process.
