It was a difficult weekend for crews trying to get a handle on the province’s wildfire situation.
As of last evening, the Conception Bay North blaze had grown to over 5,000 hectares in size.
Sweltering temperatures and heavy smoke forced the removal of ground crews on Saturday, however they were able to return yesterday. Suppression efforts yesterday were effective as crews from across the country chip in to help fight the fire.
Premier John Hogan confirmed yesterday that more properties have been consumed in Adam’s Cove, Kingston and Western Bay.
Hogan is hoping to convene his cabinet this week to discuss support for evacuees.
The fire burning near Martin Lake was active over the weekend, however there was minimal growth. No cabins in the area have been impacted.
Premier Hogan says the province was expecting additional resources from Ontario and Quebec, however that wasn’t able to happen.
Hogan says two additional water bombers from Quebec were forced to cancel due to maintenance issues. Two aircraft from Ontario have been delayed for now due to the forest fire situation in that province.
Meteorologist Veronica Sullivan says the heat warning continues for parts of eastern and central Newfoundland, with tomorrow expected to be a scorcher.
Temperatures in central are expected to hit 34 degrees, with the humidex making it feel like 41.
In terms of the wildfires, Sullivan says winds aren’t looking favourable over the next few days.
She says winds will be gusting up to 50 km/h from the southwest for the Avalon, which is not good for fire suppression.
On top of that, there is no sign of rain in the forecast until later in the week.
