Latest news with #EmergencyOperationsCentre
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Musgrave Harbour remains under evacuation order, wildfire now 2 km away from town
As fire crews continue work on an out-of-control wildfire in the Town of Musgrave Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador, the fire is now two kilometres away from the town. In a public advisory made at 6:52 p.m., the Department of Justice and Public Safety says that the fire is now moving South and is unlikely to impact the community today. However, the department anticipates that the fire will cross the highway and move toward Banting Memorial park Sunday evening into overnight. The department is now reporting that the fire is about 1,700 hectares in size. The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has wildfire suppression ground resources, four water bombers, a bird dog aircraft and other crews working to put out the fire. The province's Emergency Operations Centre is actively monitoring the situation and emergency management partners are responding. "Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation," says the advisory. In the meantime, an evacuation order remains for Musgrave Harbour and Banting Memorial Park. In a provincial update provided at noon Sunday, Jamie Chippett, the deputy minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, said that when the fire was detected at 8 p.m. Saturday evening, it was eight kilometres from the community. "It is at a very high rank, a Rank 5 in technical terms; [that means it's] 'very active,'" said Chippett. Newfoundland and Labrador uses the international ranking scale for fire behaviour, meaning a Rank 5 indicates an extremely vigorous surface fire. That scale only goes to 6. "The community would be seeing lots of smoke," said Chippett. "We do have weather conditions with a wind that is 40 gusting to 50 west-southwest, which unfortunately puts the community directly in the line of the fire." While tomorrow's winds are supposed to be slightly lighter, Chippett said they'll still be in the direction of the community. Forecasts are also saying that there may be some precipitation during the evening. "The first real relief is on Tuesday when we expect cooler temperatures, different wind direction and potentially some significant precipitation," said Chippett. Evacuees registering with Red Cross Musgrave Harbour evacuees were advised to go to a reception centre in Gander at the Steele Memorial Centre on 155 Airport Boulevard, where the Canadian Red Cross will be registering people. WATCH | Musgrave Harbour evacuees register with the Red Cross in Gander Minister of Justice and Public Safety John Haggie asked that everyone affected by the evacuation order register with the Red Cross. And if they are not intending to go to the centre in Gander, evacuees should still call 709-729-0921 to register. "It's important that we have that information so we can help you out even if you don't use the Steel Centre itself," said Haggie. There is also now a road block at the entrance to Aspen Cove and Banting Memorial Park stationed by Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and Ground Search and Rescue. The province says that Route 330 may need to be closed on short notice but that it will provide an update if required. The minister also asked that people not fly drones, as they would prevent water bombers from flying in the area. "Drones in the air means no water bombers in the air," said Haggie. "That is our main weapon during the daylight hours of containing forest fires like this. So unauthorized drone use is actually a criminal offence." Residents attempting to evacuate without vehicles were advised to go to the Musgrave Harbour fire department to avail of busing transportation, and to be brought to Gander, said Town Clerk Amber Littlejohn, Sunday morning. Littlejohn is also asked that residents drive safely, and tell friends and family where they are. She also told CBC that the community was "drenched with smoke." The town fire department worked on putting out the fire overnight, said Littlejohn, who added that while they couldn't see the fire from the town, she could see the crews working to fight it. "We have a water bomber going back and forth. He's picking up water from a designated area in the ocean there, off our beach," she said. Musgrave Harbour's town council declared a state of emergency Sunday morning, according to a letter released on social media. The letter states that the council has determined that the wildfire poses a serious safety risk to residents and property within the town. Health supports in place Environment Canada has an air quality warning in place for Musgrave Harbour and the vicinity due to high levels of smoke from the fire. As of 6:52 p.m., the province advised that the air quality in Gander is considered "moderate risk" and Grand Falls-Windsor is "low risk." "Forest fires can increase air pollution levels. Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health," writes the province in the advisory. Haggie says the health authority has extra support in place at the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander, for both physical and mental health needs. He also advises residents to monitor official channels for updates. Fires continue across the province Minister of Justice and Public Safety John Haggie called the wildfire "a significant and serious issue," and says air quality is a concern for firefighters. As wildfire still rages out of control in Chance Harbour as well, Haggie says "this is a really busy fire season for the province and certainly for the island at the moment." A previous air quality warning on the Bonavista peninsula, due to the fire near Chance Harbour, was lifted this morning. According to the Active Wildfire Dashboard, the Chance Harbour fire remains at an estimated 1,660 hectares and is still considered out of control. Provincial Fire Duty Officer Wesley Morgan says the wind has been helping keep the fire away from the nearby towns of Jamestown and Winter Brook. In an 11 a.m. update, the forestry department said that Chance Harbour residents can also expect to see significant smoke from the southern end of the fire. Three helicopters will continue to work the fire throughout the day, and ground crews will be deployed once it is safe to do so. Ground crews are still working on the wildfires at Nine Island Pond and Northwest Brook. At this time, Haggie says the province's fire suppression resources are adequate to deal with the current situation. But if things get worse, the province will look at asking other provinces for help. Province-wide fire ban in effect A fire ban is still in place across the entire province today. The province is reminding residents that open fires are still not permitted. Haggie also wanted to remind people to be careful with cigarette butts. "It is surprising the number of people who just casually toss them out of the window on the highway and we've seen that cause trouble before," he said. Download our free CBC News app to sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador. Sign up for our daily headlines newsletter here. Click here to visit our landing page.
CBC
3 days ago
- Climate
- CBC
Musgrave Harbour remains under evacuation order, wildfire now 2 km away from town
As fire crews continue work on an out-of-control wildfire in the Town of Musgrave Harbour, Newfoundland and Labrador, the fire is now two kilometres away from the town. In a public advisory made at 6:52 p.m., the Department of Justice and Public Safety says that the fire is now moving South and is unlikely to impact the community today. However, the department anticipates that the fire will cross the highway and move toward Banting Memorial park Sunday evening into overnight. The department is now reporting that the fire is about 1,700 hectares in size. The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has wildfire suppression ground resources, four water bombers, a bird dog aircraft and other crews working to put out the fire. The province's Emergency Operations Centre is actively monitoring the situation and emergency management partners are responding. "Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation," says the advisory. In the meantime, an evacuation order remains for Musgrave Harbour and Banting Memorial Park. In a provincial update provided at noon Sunday, Jamie Chippett, the deputy minister of the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture, said that when the fire was detected at 8 p.m. Saturday evening, it was eight kilometres from the community. "It is at a very high rank, a Rank 5 in technical terms; [that means it's] 'very active,'" said Chippett. Newfoundland and Labrador uses the international ranking scale for fire behaviour, meaning a Rank 5 indicates an extremely vigorous surface fire. That scale only goes to 6. "The community would be seeing lots of smoke," said Chippett. "We do have weather conditions with a wind that is 40 gusting to 50 west-southwest, which unfortunately puts the community directly in the line of the fire." While tomorrow's winds are supposed to be slightly lighter, Chippett said they'll still be in the direction of the community. Forecasts are also saying that there may be some precipitation during the evening. "The first real relief is on Tuesday when we expect cooler temperatures, different wind direction and potentially some significant precipitation," said Chippett. Evacuees registering with Red Cross Musgrave Harbour evacuees were advised to go to a reception centre in Gander at the Steele Memorial Centre on 155 Airport Boulevard, where the Canadian Red Cross will be registering people. Minister of Justice and Public Safety John Haggie asked that everyone affected by the evacuation order register with the Red Cross. And if they are not intending to go to the centre in Gander, evacuees should still call 709-729-0921 to register. "It's important that we have that information so we can help you out even if you don't use the Steel Centre itself," said Haggie. There is also now a road block at the entrance to Aspen Cove and Banting Memorial Park stationed by Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and Ground Search and Rescue. The province says that Route 330 may need to be closed on short notice but that it will provide an update if required. The minister also asked that people not fly drones, as they would prevent water bombers from flying in the area. "Drones in the air means no water bombers in the air," said Haggie. "That is our main weapon during the daylight hours of containing forest fires like this. So unauthorized drone use is actually a criminal offence." Residents attempting to evacuate without vehicles were advised to go to the Musgrave Harbour fire department to avail of busing transportation, and to be brought to Gander, said Town Clerk Amber Littlejohn, Sunday morning. Littlejohn is also asked that residents drive safely, and tell friends and family where they are. She also told CBC that the community was "drenched with smoke." The town fire department worked on putting out the fire overnight, said Littlejohn, who added that while they couldn't see the fire from the town, she could see the crews working to fight it. "We have a water bomber going back and forth. He's picking up water from a designated area in the ocean there, off our beach," she said. Musgrave Harbour's town council declared a state of emergency Sunday morning, according to a letter released on social media. The letter states that the council has determined that the wildfire poses a serious safety risk to residents and property within the town. Health supports in place Environment Canada has an air quality warning in place for Musgrave Harbour and the vicinity due to high levels of smoke from the fire. As of 6:52 p.m., the province advised that the air quality in Gander is considered "moderate risk" and Grand Falls-Windsor is "low risk." "Forest fires can increase air pollution levels. Forest fire smoke contains particles and pollutants that can harm your health," writes the province in the advisory. Haggie says the health authority has extra support in place at the James Paton Memorial Regional Health Centre in Gander, for both physical and mental health needs. He also advises residents to monitor official channels for updates. Fires continue across the province Minister of Justice and Public Safety John Haggie called the wildfire "a significant and serious issue," and says air quality is a concern for firefighters. As wildfire still rages out of control in Chance Harbour as well, Haggie says "this is a really busy fire season for the province and certainly for the island at the moment." A previous air quality warning on the Bonavista peninsula, due to the fire near Chance Harbour, was lifted this morning. According to the Active Wildfire Dashboard, the Chance Harbour fire remains at an estimated 1,660 hectares and is still considered out of control. Provincial Fire Duty Officer Wesley Morgan says the wind has been helping keep the fire away from the nearby towns of Jamestown and Winter Brook. In an 11 a.m. update, the forestry department said that Chance Harbour residents can also expect to see significant smoke from the southern end of the fire. Three helicopters will continue to work the fire throughout the day, and ground crews will be deployed once it is safe to do so. Ground crews are still working on the wildfires at Nine Island Pond and Northwest Brook. At this time, Haggie says the province's fire suppression resources are adequate to deal with the current situation. But if things get worse, the province will look at asking other provinces for help. Province-wide fire ban in effect A fire ban is still in place across the entire province today. The province is reminding residents that open fires are still not permitted. Haggie also wanted to remind people to be careful with cigarette butts. "It is surprising the number of people who just casually toss them out of the window on the highway and we've seen that cause trouble before," he said.
Global News
14-07-2025
- Climate
- Global News
Evacuation order rescinded, alerts remain due to wildfire near Princeton
The evacuation order has been rescinded and only an evacuation alert remains in place in connection with the August Lake wildfire burning near Princeton. The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Operations Centre said everyone under evacuation order could return home as of 11:30 a.m. on Monday, but must be ready to leave again at a moment's notice. There are now two evacuation alerts, totalling 84 properties, in place due to this fire. It is still mapped at 14 hectares and considered to be burning out of control. 'BC Wildfire is still working in and around that area, so just be mindful of crews on roadways, there will still be helicopters and airplanes in and around the area,' Sean Vaisler with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen said. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy Seventy-one active wildfires are burning in B.C., with five started in the last 24 hours. Story continues below advertisement The Placer Creek fire, located east of Manning Park, is currently burning 2,600 hectares. It was discovered on Saturday but has not forced any evacuation orders or alerts. The BC Wildfire Service said that while temperatures are cooler on Monday, warmer weather is set to return by Tuesday. Winds are also expected to pick up, meaning an increased risk of fire growth. Thunderstorms are also expected in the southern province, which could cause new fires to start. In Northern B.C., temperatures are continuing to climb with lower humidity expected for this week, the wildfire service said in an update. Some patchy winds are forecasted across the north, but winds should ease by the middle of this week. 1:52 Out-of-control August Lake wildfire burning outside of Princeton, B.C. Some areas of the province will see smokier conditions as a result of ongoing wildfires with heavy amounts concentrated in the Fort Nelson area, the BC Wildfire Service said. Story continues below advertisement Southern B.C. will also see a smoky haze because of the Similkameen fires and shifting winds.
Scoop
03-07-2025
- Climate
- Scoop
Ruapehu Networks Recovering From Overnight Storm
Ruapehu Civil Defence Controller Clive Manley says the district's local roads and water systems are recovering well following yesterday's extreme weather. 'The Emergency Operations Centre, which was activated as a precaution ahead of the storm, was stood down at 9.30pm last night,' said Mr Manley. 'While there were a number of slips and fallen trees that closed local roads - including Raetihi-Pipiriki Road at Mangaeturoa North Road, Tokirima Road at the Ohura River bridge by Maraekowhai Station, and Roto and Saddlers Roads - our contractors have been working since first light to clear the debris. Most affected roads are expected to reopen by mid-morning, although Raetihi-Pipiriki Road has sustained a major slip and will take longer to clear.' Ohura Road was reduced to one lane about 5km from Ohura township, and there has been some shallow flooding near Waitangata Road close to Matiere. High turbidity levels caused by heavy rainfall, along with increased water demand during the school holidays, put pressure on drinking water supplies. 'Taumarunui, Ohura, and Owhango water treatment plants were taken offline during periods of peak turbidity,' said Mr Manley. 'However, water treatment operations are now returning to normal. The Waimarino (National Park), Ohakune, and Raetihi plants continued operating throughout the event without any issues.' Mr Manley added that the district's wastewater systems were put under pressure due to the large volumes of water entering the system, but these are expected to stabilise as water flows subside. As of 10.30am this morning, Waka Kotahi NZTA reported that State Highways 43, 3 and 4 remain blocked at various points due to slips and were advising people to avoid unnecessary travel. 'If you do need to travel out of the district, please use the NZTA Journey Planner at to check the latest highway conditions.' With the ground still saturated and local roads likely to be fragile, drivers should take extra care, reduce speed, and watch out for surface flooding.' Ruapehu Mayor Weston Kirton said that he wanted to thank those involved in the emergency response. 'I want to acknowledge the outstanding efforts of council contractors and emergency services who worked overnight and are now busy supporting the recovery. I would also like to thank the Pipiriki Campground for stepping up and looking after a family who became stranded due to the road closure. It's a great example of the community showing manaakitanga and caring for others,' he said. Anyone encountering flooding, slips, or other road hazards is urged to call Council on 07 895 8188 or report the issue through the Antenno app.
CTV News
16-06-2025
- Climate
- CTV News
Weekend rain, cooler conditions allow crews to make progress on B.C. wildfires
A helicopter works on the Dryden Creek wildfire north of Squamish, B.C., on Tuesday, June 10, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tijana Martin Firefighters are marking success in opposite corners of British Columbia after favourable weather this weekend allowed crews to rein in two prominent fires that have triggered evacuation orders and alerts. The BC Wildfire Service says crews remain on the scene in Squamish, B.C., to extinguish hot spots from the Dryden Creek fire, which was declared to be no longer out of control on Saturday. The District of Squamish Emergency Operations Centre along with Squamish Fire Rescue have rescinded most evacuation alerts, though one remains in effect for properties on Dryden Road east. The wildfire service says cooler temperatures this weekend allowed crews to decrease fire behaviour and conditions are forecast to remain cool and damp, with rain expected on Wednesday, as aircrews continue bucketing operations. The Dryden Creek fire about 60 kilometres north of Vancouver had triggered a local state of emergency in the District of Squamish last week, and was declared as 'being held' on Saturday. The wildfire service meanwhile says flames are no longer visible from the Kiskatinaw River fire in the northeast corner of the province, after it was doused with more than 20 millimetres of rain over the weekend. But BC Wildfire Service fire behaviour analyst Neal McLoughlin says in a video posted Sunday that 'that doesn't mean the fire isn't active underground' so crews remain on scene. The blaze is still rated as out of control, and it is one of three wildfires of note in B.C. 'When we receive this amount of rain on a fire, it's going to take several days of hot, dry conditions before our fuel moisture conditions recover and allow the fire to become active on the surface again,' McLoughlin says in the video. 'So this change in weather has really given us the upper hand for the next week to get ahead of fire suppression activities.' But, he notes, the northeast has been 'experiencing several years of drought,' so while the rain improves firefighting conditions, the landscape is still receptive to fire. 'Twenty millimetres of rain is wonderful, but we know there's hot spots still within the fire perimeter, and we also know that there's deep underlying drought, and so within a week of drying conditions, we could see active fire on the surface again, and for that reason, we need to maintain active fire suppression over the weeks to come and wrap this fire.' This report by Brieanna Charlebois, The Canadian Press, was first published June 16, 2025.
