A fast-moving wildfire in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley has destroyed homes and forced hundreds of residents to flee, provincial officials confirmed Monday.
The Long Lake fire, driven by strong winds from Hurricane Erin, spread rapidly over the weekend and has now grown to nearly 8,000 hectares.
Premier Tim Houston said about 330 households have been ordered to evacuate, with residents only being informed directly about damage to their properties.
He described the situation as “crushing,” noting that despite extensive preparations, firefighting crews could not contain the blaze once wind conditions intensified.
Jim Rudderham, Director of Fleet and Forest Protection, said the fire’s intensity made it unsafe to continue suppression efforts at peak burn times, forcing crews to withdraw.
Houston praised firefighters, pilots, equipment operators, contractors, and volunteers for their efforts, while also warning that new fires continue to emerge across the province.
Five additional blazes were reported Sunday, including one in Cumberland County that remains out of control but is showing signs of progress.
To support evacuees, the province has announced emergency financial aid ranging from $500 to $1,000 per displaced adult, with extra assistance for dependents.
Meanwhile, Environment Canada has issued an air quality warning for Annapolis County due to heavy smoke from the fire.
Officials said three wildfires are currently active across Nova Scotia, with Long Lake being the only one classified as out of control.