Crews engaged in combating the Long Lake wildfire complex in Annapolis County may receive some much-needed assistance today as rain is predicted to begin this afternoon. As of now, the wildfire is estimated to cover a staggering 8,234 hectares and is still classified as out of control.
According to forecasts from Environment Canada, the area can expect two to four millimeters of rain starting around noon, with another two to four millimeters projected to fall in the evening. Last weekend, Jim Rudderham, the Director of Fleet and Forest Protection, indicated that while prolonged rain is crucial for making a significant impact on the fire's size, even a modest amount of around 10 millimeters could support the firefighting efforts.
“Nice, steady, gentle rain for a few days is what we’re after. But again, we’ll take it,” Rudderham remarked, highlighting the necessity of stable and gentle rainfall to aid in firefighting.
The province's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has reported no new damage overnight despite the ongoing wildfire situation. The fire notably expanded last weekend, exacerbated by dry and hot conditions along with strong winds. On August 24, it resulted in the loss of 20 homes in West Dalhousie.
This event had a significant emotional toll, as highlighted by Diane LeBlanc, the Warden of Annapolis County. “It was devastating news, and our hearts were broken for those who lost their homes in the West Dalhousie wildfire. These were not just structures, they were places filled with memories, comfort, and meaning,” she expressed. Additionally, 11 other structures, including garages and sheds, suffered damage of varying degrees.
The DNR has mobilized all available resources to establish fire breaks around the perimeter. This includes the creation of dozer guards, and the deployment of hoses and pumps to control the blaze. They are utilizing aircraft to tackle hot spots from above, thereby ensuring safety for ground crews as they work systematically from the outer edges toward the center to extinguish the fire.
The anticipated rain is expected to halt by Sunday morning, but the area will likely continue to experience widespread smoke, and an air quality warning remains in effect for Annapolis County. In a related note, the province has lifted certain forest restrictions in some areas, including Halifax, but these bans still apply to Annapolis County.
The weather forecast indicates that Sunday will see temperatures peak at 19°C, with a rise to 26°C expected by Monday. The ongoing firefighting efforts, coupled with the expected rain, will be crucial in bringing an end to this devastating wildfire situation in Annapolis County.
