'More evacuations possible' as Long Lake fire grows to more than 1,100 hectares
The Long Lake wildfire in Annapolis County remains out of control and has grown to an estimated 1,101 hectares, according to the Department of Natural Resources.
In an update Sunday, the department said that the wind had shifted, meaning the fire is moving toward the West Dalhousie Road area.
"Sprinklers on all homes, other protection measures in place," said the update. "More evacuations possible."
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More than 100 homes in the area have already been evacuated.
Resources on the ground Sunday include two contracted helicopters, 57 Department of Natural Resources staff, five firefighters from P.E.I., and 39 local firefighters.
In addition, a 20-member DNR crew recently returned from New Brunswick, along with another 20 firefighters from Ontario, are being deployed to Long Lake
The wildfire burning near West Dalhousie, N.S., is shown on Friday. It has nearly tripled in size over the weekend, topping 1,100 hectares. (Jeorg Sadi/CBC)
Officials are also working to have four water-skimmer aircraft from the Northwest Territories in service today. They were supposed to help on Saturday, but they were "still preparing," according to a social media post by the DNR.
Another update is expected this afternoon.
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Smoke around the province
Meanwhile, many Nova Scotians woke up to heavy smoke, prompting some fire departments in the province to urge residents to remain calm.
"You may notice the smell of smoke and haze in the air today. This is due to the wildfires burning outside of Bridgetown (West Dalhousie), and the smoke is settling across our region," the Wolfville Fire Department said on social media.
The fire department says if smoke appears widespread or hazy throughout the area, rather than forming a distinct column, it is likely drifting in from ongoing fires and does not require an emergency call.
Emergency calls should be made if there is a clear column of smoke, visible flames, or a concentrated area of heavy smoke that appears local, it says.
The department says residents should call if smoke is coming directly from a building, vehicle or nearby wooded area, or if they believe there may be an immediate fire threat.
Environment Canada's Air Quality Health Index forecasts a low risk around the province, but notes the possibility of moderate risk in some areas due to the smoke.
Thumbnail courtesy: Melissa Friedman/CBC
The story, written by Giuliana Grillo de Lambarri, was originally published for CBC News.