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Nova Scotia wildfire crews are racing to shore up containment lines ahead of strong winds expected as Hurricane Erin tracks south of the province.
The Long Lake fire remains out of control at an estimated 3,210 hectares. While crews have had favourable weather in recent days, officials say shifting winds in the coming days are their biggest concern.
Scott Tingley, Manager of Forest Protection, said the storm system is expected to drive wind from several directions over the weekend, including a shift back toward communities already under threat. “That’s a big focus of the crews on the fire right now — putting a lot of energy and focusing most of the resources on securing and suppressing up along the north end of the fire where it’s in and around the community of West Dalhousie,” Tingley explained.
Firefighters on scene include 22 from Ontario, five from Prince Edward Island, 52 from Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources, and 44 local volunteers. They are being supported by 37 pieces of heavy equipment, water bombers, and helicopters.
Jim Rutterham, Director of Fleet and Forest Protection, warned that conditions remain unpredictable. “We have a hurricane arriving tomorrow. That’s not supposed to bring us any rain, but [it is] going to bring us wind. So we’re carefully watching that,” he said.
Officials say crews have been using heavy equipment to carve containment lines and aerial tankers to reduce fire intensity, but the ultimate test will come with the weekend weather.
Annapolis County evacuation centre to operate 24 hours next 2 days
A move to 24-hour operations for a shelter in Annapolis County.
Thursday and Friday, the evacuation reception centre and shelter will be open around the clock.
It’s located at the NSCC in Middleton, and offers showers, laundry, wi-fi and overnight accommodations.
Brian Orde with the Annapolis Regional Emergency Management Organization says it will give evacuees peace of mind and support during a time of uncertainty.
The county will re-assess the need for 24 hour operations on Sunday.
About 107 homes are affected by the evacuation order from the Long Lake wildfire complex.
