The Long Lake wildfire in Nova Scotia has significantly expanded in size, now estimated at approximately 807 hectares, a substantial increase from the estimated 406 hectares reported on Friday. This wildfire is currently the largest active fire across the province and continues to spread out of control following its ignition by lightning earlier in the week. In contrast, the nearby Hoyt Lake fire remains under control at just 1 hectare.
In response to the growing threat posed by the Long Lake wildfire, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has deployed a team of 44 DNR members, alongside five fire crew members from Prince Edward Island's DNR and 30 local firefighters to combat the blaze. Earlier efforts included the use of two contracted helicopters to drop water on the affected areas.
Evacuations Underway
A recent evacuation order was issued Thursday evening, adding to the cumulative total of 107 homes evacuated since the fire's onset. The new evacuation zone includes the following locations:
- Homes from the West Dalhousie Road intersection to 484 Morse Rd.
- Addresses ranging from 4530 to 6186 West Dalhousie Rd.
- Properties from 2648 to 3408 Thorne Rd.
- 126 Medicraft Lane and its Unit 2.
The Nova Scotia Department of Emergency Management has requested that residents cease donating food, clothing, and other items to the wildfire command center located in Long Lake. They emphasized that for health and safety reasons, only prepackaged food can be accepted, and space for storage is becoming increasingly scarce. They expressed their gratitude for the community's generosity via a post on X.
Air Quality Warning Issued
On Saturday morning, Environment Canada released a special air quality statement covering the entire Annapolis Valley, due to smoke from the wildfire affecting air quality locally and in downwind areas. Residents are advised that smoke concentrations may vary with minor changes in wind speed or direction.
CityNews weather specialist Allister Alders noted the visibility of the smoke from the Long Lake wildfire on satellite images, stating that smoke is moving from the southwest and west towards parts of southwest New Brunswick. Residents are encouraged to remain indoors and keep doors and windows closed to preserve indoor air quality. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, it is recommended that individuals wear a properly fitted N95 mask to minimize exposure to harmful smoke particles.
Helicopter Pilot's Condition
The DNR has reported that the helicopter pilot involved in a crash while fighting the wildfire is in stable condition. An official communication expressed appreciation for the support received from the community. The helicopter went down in shallow water shortly before 4:30 p.m. on Friday, while engaged in fire suppression operations. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada has been notified as part of standard procedure for aircraft incidents.
This evolving situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by fire crews as they work to manage and contain the wildfire that poses a significant threat to local communities. The response efforts are being bolstered by both local and external resources to ensure the safety of residents and protect property.
