Annapolis County Wildfire Gains Ground Overnight Despite Rainfall: Latest Updates and Impact Assessment

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Wildfire Intensifies in Nova scotia,Forcing Evacuations and Mobilizing regional Aid

August 18,2024

Annapolis County,Nova Scotia is currently battling a meaningful out-of-control wildfire near Long Lake. The blaze, which ignited last Wednesday, has now consumed an estimated 2,063 hectares – approximately 20 square kilometers – according to the Department of Natural Resources.Crews are working tirelessly to contain the rapidly evolving situation.

Evacuations and Impact on Residents

Authorities have issued mandatory evacuation orders for 107 homes in the West Dalhousie area, impacting roughly 215 individuals. While no homes have been directly damaged by the flames as of Monday evening, several campers and trailers have been lost to the advancing fire.Evacuees are experiencing anxiety and worry, but express gratitude for the support received from firefighters and the wider Nova Scotia community.

Multi-Agency Response

The firefighting effort is a collaborative one, drawing resources from multiple provinces and territories. Currently, four planes originating from the Northwest Territories and two contracted helicopters are actively engaged in water bombing operations. Ground crews comprise 77 firefighters from the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources, 22 personnel from Ontario, and five from Prince Edward Island, alongside 120 local firefighters and 10 resting local firefighters.

A helicopter crash occurred on Friday while assisting with the firefighting efforts, resulting in minor injuries to the pilot, as reported by the Transportation Safety Board of Canada. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incident.

Weather Conditions and Fire Containment

recent rainfall offered a glimmer of hope,with between 15 and 20 millimeters of rain falling in the affected area overnight Sunday.Though, officials caution that this precipitation is unlikely to significantly impact the fire’s progression. Scott Tingley,manager of forest protection for the Natural Resources Department,emphasized the need for sustained effort despite the welcome moisture.

Resource Deployment Overview

Resource	Origin	Quantity
Aircraft (Planes)	Northwest Territories	4
Helicopters	contracted	2
Firefighters (NS DNR)	Nova Scotia	77
Firefighters (Ontario)	Ontario	22
Firefighters (PEI)	Prince Edward Island	5
Local Firefighters	Annapolis County	120 + 10 resting

The federal government has approved Nova Scotia’s request for assistance and is coordinating with the Canadian Armed Forces to provide additional support.Specifically, permission has been granted to use CFB Greenwood for landing and refueling the skimmer planes from the Northwest Territories.

Did You Know? Wildfires are becoming increasingly frequent and intense globally due to climate change and drier conditions. According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Center (CIFFC), the 2023 wildfire season was the worst on record, burning over 18.5 million hectares.

Pro Tip: During wildfire season, stay informed about air quality in your region using resources like Environment Canada’s Air Quality Health Index. Individuals with respiratory issues should take extra precautions.

Wildfire Preparedness and Safety

Wildfires pose a growing threat to communities worldwide. Preparing for a wildfire involves creating a FireSmart home, which includes clearing vegetation around your property and using fire-resistant building materials.It also means having an emergency plan and a grab-and-go kit ready in case of evacuation. Staying informed about local fire bans and restrictions is crucial. Resources like the Canadian government’s wildfire prevention website offer valuable information.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Nova Scotia Wildfire

• What is the current status of the Long Lake wildfire? The fire remains out of control and has grown to 2,063 hectares.
• Are there any evacuation orders in place? Yes,107 homes in West Dalhousie are under mandatory evacuation.
• What resources are being used to fight the wildfire? Aircraft from the Northwest Territories, helicopters, and firefighters from Nova Scotia, Ontario, and PEI are all involved.
• Is the rain helping to contain the fire? While appreciated, officials say the rainfall hasn’t had a significant impact on the overall situation.
• Where can I find the latest updates on the wildfire? Monitor local news sources and the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources website.
• What can residents do to prepare for potential wildfires? Create a FireSmart home, develop an emergency plan, and stay informed about local fire risks.
• What is the long-term outlook for wildfire season in Nova Scotia? Experts predict that wildfire seasons will continue to become more frequent and intense due to climate change.

What are your thoughts on the increasing frequency of wildfires? Share your comments below,and please share this article with anyone who might potentially be affected or interested in the situation.

What specific factors are contributing to the continued growth of the wildfire despite recent rainfall?

Current Wildfire Status – August 18, 2025

Despite moderate rainfall across parts of Annapolis County overnight, the wildfire continues to expand, now estimated at 8,500 hectares. This represents a meaningful increase from yesterday’s reported 7,200 hectares. Fire officials attribute the continued growth to dry conditions persisting in the core burn area and sustained winds. The fire remains classified as out of control.

Key Statistics (as of 10:00 AM AST, August 18, 2025):

Size: 8,500 hectares (approximately 85 square kilometers)

Containment: 0%

Status: Out of Control

Location: Primarily impacting the forested areas west of Annapolis Royal, extending towards Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site.

Evacuations: Approximately 500 residents remain under evacuation order. See section below for detailed evacuation information.

Evacuation Orders and shelters

the following communities are currently under mandatory evacuation order:

1. west Annapolis
2. Lakeville
3. Belleisle
4. Areas surrounding the Kejimkujik National Park boundary within a 5km radius.

Evacuation shelters:

Annapolis Royal Regional civic Centre: Open 24/7,providing food,water,and basic necessities.

Valley Regional High School, Liverpool: Accepting evacuees and pets.

Information regarding emergency accommodations and support can be found on the Annapolis County website (https://www.annapoliscounty.ca/).

Rainfall Impact & Fire Behavior

While the rainfall – averaging 15-20mm across the eastern portions of the fire zone – provided some relief, it was insufficient to significantly dampen the deeply rooted fuels driving the wildfire. The western edge of the fire, characterized by drier conditions and heavier forest cover, experienced continued, aggressive growth.

Wind: Sustained winds from the southwest, gusting up to 40 km/h, are pushing the fire northward and eastward.

Fuel Load: A significant accumulation of dry forest litter and downed trees is contributing to the fire’s intensity and spread.

Humidity: Relative humidity remains low, hindering efforts to suppress the flames.

Resources Deployed

Firefighting efforts are being coordinated by the Nova Scotia department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR), with support from:

Ground Crews: Over 200 firefighters are actively engaged in building fire breaks, conducting direct attack on flames, and protecting structures.

Water Bombers: Four water bomber aircraft are continuously dropping water on hotspots.

Helicopters: Multiple helicopters are being used for water transport and reconnaissance.

Mutual Aid: Firefighters and resources have been requested from and are arriving from New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Canadian Armed Forces: The Canadian Armed Forces are providing logistical support, including transportation and personnel.

Air Quality Concerns & Health Advisories

Smoke from the Annapolis County wildfire is impacting air quality across Nova Scotia, particularly in the western regions.

Air Quality Index: The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is currently rated as “High Risk” in Annapolis County and surrounding areas.

Health Recommendations: Individuals with respiratory conditions (asthma,COPD),heart disease,pregnant women,and children are advised to:

Stay indoors with windows closed.

Use air purifiers with HEPA filters.

Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

Real-time Air Quality Data: Access current air quality information at https://airquality.novascotia.ca/.

Impact Assessment: Economic & Environmental

The wildfire is having a significant impact on the local economy and surroundings.

Tourism: Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site remains closed, impacting the summer tourism season. Local businesses reliant on park visitors are experiencing substantial revenue losses.

Forestry: Thousands of hectares of valuable forest land have been destroyed, impacting the forestry industry. Long-term reforestation efforts will be required.

Agriculture: Smoke drift is affecting agricultural operations, possibly impacting crop yields.

Wildlife: The fire poses a threat to wildlife habitat and animal populations. wildlife rehabilitation organizations are preparing for an influx of injured animals.

Water Resources: Potential for watershed contamination due to ash and sediment runoff.

Looking ahead: Forecast & Potential Scenarios

The weather forecast for the next 48 hours predicts continued dry conditions and moderate winds. This suggests the wildfire will likely continue to grow, although the rate of spread may be influenced by tactical firefighting efforts.

Best-Case Scenario: A sustained period of heavy rainfall would significantly dampen fuels and allow firefighters to gain control of the blaze.

*worst-Case