ST. JOHN'S — A Newfoundland wildfire is forcing another 900 people to leave their homes as hot temperatures fuel multiple out-of-control blazes in the province.
Premier John Hogan said Thursday that the province has ordered the residents of two communities — Ochre Pit Cove and Salmon Cove — to join the hundreds of other evacuees already ordered to leave communities along the western coast of Conception Bay in eastern Newfoundland.
The 21-square-kilometre fire in that area is also near Kingston and the amalgamated community of Small Point–Adam’s Cove–Blackhead–Broad Cove.
Meanwhile, Hogan says the federal government has approved support and personnel from the Canadian Forces and the coast guard.
He said the government has requested Ottawa's assistance with staff to provide humanitarian aid, Canadian Forces firefighters, use of coast guard helicopters, and the transport of food and medical supplies.
The premier confirmed a number of structures have been destroyed but added there are still no details on how many.
Meanwhile, the province's fire dashboard indicates that a two-square-kilometre fire burning in the centre of the province near Martin Lake remains out of control, as does a two-square-kilometre fire near the community of Holyrood.
The Department of Justice and Public Safety says hot, dry weather is expected in Newfoundland on Thursday, along with "light winds."
John Haggie, minister of justice and public safety, said about 80 per cent of evacuees find their own accommodations, and the Red Cross helps the remaining people find places to stay.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Aug. 7, 2025.
— Story by Michael Tutton in Halifax.
The Canadian Press
