Nova Scotia Wildfire Update

USPA NEWS - A provincewide burn ban commenced on July 30 and will remain in effect until October 15, or until conditions improve. Violations will incur a fine of $25,000. The ban applies to open fires, including campfires, bonfires, brush fires, and chimenea fires, as well as any other unenclosed wood-fueled fires. Unlike gas or charcoal fires, sparks from open wood fires can escape and cause wildfires. Non-woodburning devices, such as charcoal and gas barbecues, and gas stoves, are permitted for use, provided manufacturer instructions are followed.

CAUSE OF SUSIE LAKE FIRE: The most recent available data suggests that the Susie Lake Fire resulted from human activity involving an open flame. Responding crews found the area unoccupied, hindering efforts to identify and hold accountable those responsible. Firefighters are reporting progress in containing the fire, but it remains uncontrolled. The investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing.

HALIFAX WILDFIRE UPDATE 9:00 AM, August 13th: The situation remains critical, with the fire out-of-control and spanning 25-30 hectares (~62-74 acres). Fog has temporarily suspended air support this morning. Around 30 DNR firefighters are joining forces with Halifax firefighters.

HALIFAX WILDFIRE UPDATE - WEDNESDAY 9:00 PM: Firefighters have currently contained the wildfire near Bayers Lake, but the situation may change. Overnight monitoring will be conducted. On Thursday morning, 30 DNR and 20 Halifax firefighters will resume work to control the fire. The plaza containing Burger King, Staples, Sport Chek, Winners, Dollarama, Marks, Kent, etc remains inaccessible. Updates will follow on Thursday.

ADDITIONAL WILDFIRES: 6 OXFORD WILDFIRES: In the Birchwood Road area of Oxford, Cumberland County, six small wildfires are currently active. Status: Five fires are being held, one fire is under control. Helicopter support has ended for the night. DNR firefighters and local fire departments are actively responding on the ground.

LAKE PAUL FIRE (Kings County) - Fire is currently being held, but the situation remains fluid. Fire is 1.9 hectares (~5 acres). Fire crews to return in A.M.

Within the past 24 hours, fire crews have responded to 17 wildfire reports, including the Susie Lake fire, and in the preceding three weeks, they have been addressing one to two reports daily. Authorities stress the vital importance of wildfire prevention measures, advising the public to avoid wooded areas, refrain from burning, and steer clear of operating drones near fire locations. Fire crews are working diligently to ensure public safety. Further updates on the various active wildfires will be available Thursday.

MANDATORY EVACUATION. Evacuation on West Dalhousie Road civic #4094-5315 due to Long Lake and Hoyt Lake out-of-control wildfires in Annapolis County. This is a life threatning situation. Long Lake Fire is approx 30 hectares (~74 acres). Hoyt Lake approx 1 hectare. Dozer guard being built around West Dalhousie Community Centre and communication towers.