UPDATE: 3 p.m.
Provincial crews remain on scene of a wildfire in Yarmouth County today.
It’s been burning in the Horseshoe Lake area since Monday afternoon, and is now about 3,100 hectares in size.
The Department of Natural Resources has issued a Tweet saying it’s now “out of control.”
Two helicopters, one CL-415 water bomber and 40 @NS_DNRR personnel from across the province are responding to the wildfire near Horseshoe Lake, Yarmouth Co. Fire is considered out-of-control and estimated to cover 3,100 hectares.
— Natural Resources and Renewables (@NS_DNRR) May 11, 2022
Wildfire Prevention Officer Kara McCurdy says they’re continuing to be assisted by a water-bomber from Newfoundland.
“There are roughly 35-40 wildland firefighters that are on the ground. We also have two DNRR helicopters working around the head of the fire,” says McCurdy.
She says the fire was human caused, as no lightning has been reported in the area.
McCurdy says there’s no threat to homes or businesses at this time, and crews are noticing less smoke today.
She reminds citizens with drones that flying them over a wildfire is not allowed, as it’s unsafe for pilots.
Wildfire response continues near Horseshoe Lake, Yarmouth Co. Two helicopters and crews from across the province, and the water bomber, are being mobilized. Fire size is estimated to be 1,000 ha. Updates will be provided throughout the day.
— Natural Resources and Renewables (@NS_DNRR) May 11, 2022
A direct look at the 🔥on the horizon from @YARMOUTHAIRPORT and one of the @NS_DNRR 🚁 fueling up before heading back to the Horseshoe Lake Fire. The 🔥 is approximately 350 hectares and growing. Water bombers from Newfoundland are on the way.
Please keep your windows closed! pic.twitter.com/75HqLEkYLB
— Yarmouth Professional Firefighters Association (@IAFFLocal2094) May 10, 2022
In a post on their Facebook page, the chief of the Quinan Volunteer Fire Department says it’s the largest fire in the area in recent history.
Aaron Pottier says they’re in constant communication with the Yarmouth/Argyle EMO and are monitoring the situation very closely.
He advises having essentials ready if evacuations are needed.
with files from Steve MacArthur
