Annapolis County Wildfire destroys 20 houses, with more dry weather ahead

Following a challenging battle to protect structures, officials have announced that a devastating fire in Annapolis County has resulted in the loss of 20 houses.

On Sunday, August 24, firefighters faced extreme conditions as they fought the Long Lake Wildfire, which grew rapidly over a 12-hour period fueled by strong winds and dry vegetation. The intense heat of the flames made it difficult for water to mitigate the impact, ultimately leading to the destruction of 20 homes in West-Dalhousie.

Diane Leblanc, Warden of Annapolis County, expressed her sympathy for those affected by the wildfire, acknowledging that the lost houses held cherished memories and significance for their owners.

The properties lost were located on West Dalhousie, Thorne, and Morse Roads, with some being secondary structures like garages or sheds. Additionally, 11 other structures in the area were either damaged or destroyed. While officials were unable to confirm the total number of affected properties, they emphasized the importance of the sprinkler systems that were installed in 88 homes, preventing further losses.

Emergency Management Minister Kim Masland attributed the destruction of the houses to their location and the surrounding topography. She noted that despite the tragic outcome, it was fortunate that no more structures were lost.

As of the latest update, over 500 evacuees have registered with the Red Cross, with a total of 505 social addresses evacuated due to the wildfire. Efforts continue to contain the blaze, with a significant deployment of resources including helicopters, planes, and ground crews working tirelessly to combat Nova Scotia’s largest wildfire.

Latest Updates on the Long Lake Wildfire

Challenges Faced by Crews

Civil servants remain concerned about the potential for the fire to reignite, particularly in light of weather conditions that could exacerbate the situation. The sheer size of the wildfire, estimated at over 8,000 hectares, presents a formidable challenge for firefighting efforts.

Despite some relief brought by rain showers, the continued dry weather and forecasted winds pose ongoing threats to containment efforts. However, there is cautious optimism as Environment Canada predicts a chance of showers on Saturday, offering a glimmer of hope for the dedicated crews.