Rain, drizzle and fog a welcome sight for crews fighting Kingston wildfire
Tuesday's rain, drizzle and fog is a welcome sight for crews working on fighting the ongoing wildfire that has grown along Conception Bay North.
"We need rain. And the whole province really, really needs rain. We've been in the moisture deficit all summer along," provincial fire duty officer Jeff Motty told CBC Radio's the St. John's Morning Show on Tuesday.
Newfoundland and Labrador's Department of Justice and Public Safety issued a statement on Monday saying portions of that fire have been contained, and overall there has been an ongoing decline in fire activity and intensity.
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But, the department said, other areas are still out of control and very active, and that residents should expect to see smoke.
The fire remains at an estimated 10,095 hectares.
Throughout Monday, activity picked up along the fire's western edge, said the department.
Motty said some ground crews were removed because of the smoke, but they switched to the air, with up to six water bombers being used.
Firefighters from Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario and British Colombia dug into hot spots throughout the day with the help of heavy capacity helicopters.
Evacuees will also move from Carbonear Academy to the Splash Centre in Harbour Grace at 3 p.m. on Tuesday. The new centre will be staffed and will continue to provide food and support.
For the C.B.N. residents who were able to return home — including Salmon Cove, Victoria Cove, Gull Island and Burnt Cove — well water test kits will be available at the AYLA Centre in Lower Island Cove for free.
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Martin Lake and Paddy's Pond
The Martin Lake fire remains under control at 1,633 hectares.
Ground crews removed equipment on Monday but will continue working on hot spots throughout the week along with a helicopter.
The province said cabin owners may notice smoke, but if they see open flames and thick smoke, it should be reported immediately.
Paddy's Pond also remains under control and is still 318 hectares. Some local fire crews remain on site.
This article, originally published by CBC News on August 26, 2025, was written by Abby Cole.
Thumbnail credit to Ryan Cooke.