Efforts to bring a fast-moving wildfire under control in the Conception Bay North area continue today, as over 20 structures have already been affected and hundreds of residents face uncertainty.
The wildfire broke out yesterday afternoon and quickly swept through several small communities near Adam’s Cove, prompting evacuations and road closures. Officials have confirmed that more than 600 hectares of land have been impacted.
Evacuations and Closures
A state of emergency remains in effect, and the evacuation zone now includes residents from Blackhead Brook northward. While not under a formal evacuation order, people in Western Bay—south of River Loop Road—are strongly advised to leave.
The North Shore Highway near Adam’s Cove remains closed. Local councillor Paul Adams from Small Point says the situation is serious but expressed hope that firefighters could gain the upper hand today.
Several emergency shelters have been opened for those displaced, including:
-
Persalvic School in Victoria
-
A-Y-L-A Building in Lower Island Cove
-
Salem Community Centre in Small Point
-
Cabot Academy in Western Bay
A Starlink internet site is expected to be active at the Salem Community Centre later today, enabling improved communication and updates.
First-Hand Accounts and Power Outages
Former NDP leader Gerry Rogers, who owns property in the affected area, remained on-site during the initial spread of the fire but has since evacuated. Speaking on Your VOCM Mornings alongside her partner Peg Norman, Rogers described the scene as harrowing, noting that many affected buildings appear to be seasonal homes.
Power has been cut to several hundred homes as crews assess fire damage and work to restore services.
Weather Outlook and Government Response
Justice and Public Safety Minister Bernard Davis stated that ground crews remain actively engaged. He’s also been in contact with federal counterparts regarding possible additional support.
Though fog initially delayed the deployment of waterbombers at first light, aircraft are now active. Davis refrained from providing specifics on structural damage but confirmed that approximately 600 hectares are affected.
Environment Canada meteorologist Ian Hubbard forecasts light rain beginning later this afternoon, which could help firefighting efforts. Only a few millimeters are expected, but combined with 30 km/h southwest winds, conditions are likely to improve modestly for fire crews.
