FREDERICTON — Officials in Nova Scotia say a wildfire in the western part of the province has grown and could force people out of their homes, while cooler temperatures and low winds have helped firefighters in Newfoundland and Labrador.
In a social media post, Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources officials said the Long Lake wildfire has spread over 11 square kilometres and is moving toward West Dalhousie Road in Annapolis County. On Saturday, the fire was about eight square kilometres in size.
"Sprinklers on all homes, other protection measures in place. More evacuations possible," the post said.
Two contracted helicopters are helping local firefighters along with crews from Prince Edward Island and Ontario, it said.
The fire is burning about 135 kilometres northwest of Halifax, and officials declared a state of emergency in Annapolis County on Saturday.
Meanwhile, cooler temperatures and low winds have helped firefighters in Newfoundland and Labrador with little growth in wildfires.
The largest wildfire, burning along the northwestern shore of Conception Bay, however, remained at a stubborn 95 square kilometres.
The wildfire has destroyed about 100 houses and forced 3,000 people out of their homes.
"Today’s weather conditions, cooler temperatures and light winds will provide crews with a strong opportunity for suppression efforts," said a news release from the province's Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture Department.
The Paddy's Pond wildfire, about 15 kilometres southwest of the city's downtown core, has been holding steady at just a little over three square kilometres in size, it said.
The Martin Lake wildfire remains at 17 square kilometres and crews are tackling it with four water bombers and bucketing helicopters, it said.
There are seven active wildfires in Newfoundland and Labrador, with over 196 square kilometres of ground scorched.
Meanwhile, an evacuation advisory has been lifted for the residents of Lavillette in northern New Brunswick.
There are 34 active wildfires across New Brunswick with seven deemed out of control, said a news release from the province.
The Oldfield Road wildfire near Miramichi remains the largest one, measuring roughly 14 square kilometres.
"Even though some rain is expected in the coming days, wildfire danger remains high," said the news release.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 17, 2025.
The Canadian Press
