CHANCE HARBOUR, N.L. — The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture of Newfoundland and Labrador has announced that a wildfire near Chance Harbour on the Bonavista Peninsula has become the largest wildfire in the province. The fire, which is currently mapped at 16.6 square kilometres, has seen an increase in size from 15 square kilometres just one day prior. The department noted that this growth might have occurred gradually over a longer period.

Firefighters are actively engaged in combating the blaze, utilizing various firefighting equipment, including water bombers and helicopters. In an effort to protect nearby communities, a sprinkler system has been deployed on the south and southeast sections of the wildfire, which are closest to the communities of Jamestown and Winter Brook. Fortunately, there has been no further growth of the flames in that direction so far.

Currently, there are five active wildfires in the province. Among these, the Chance Harbour wildfire and the Winokapu fire in Labrador are both classified as out-of-control, indicating that firefighting efforts are not yet fully able to contain the flames. This classification underscores the challenges faced by the firefighting teams in dealing with these large wildfires.

This year has proven to be particularly demanding for the province, with a total of 170 wildfires recorded so far. These wildfires have collectively scorched an estimated 60 square kilometres of land, highlighting the severe environmental threat the province is currently facing. As the wildfire season progresses, efforts to manage and control these blazes remain a top priority for local authorities.

The Canadian Press reported on this developing situation on July 19, 2025, emphasizing the ongoing challenges of wildfire management in Newfoundland and Labrador amidst a particularly active wildfire season.