Kingston Wildfire Under Control, Conception Bay North Evacuation Orders Lifted
Kingston, N.L. – Residents of Conception Bay North are returning home after nearly a month of evacuation orders were lifted as the massive Kingston wildfire is now classified as under control, the Government of Newfoundland adn Labrador announced Saturday afternoon. Heavy rainfall aided firefighting efforts, allowing the province’s Department of Forestry to declare sufficient suppression action had been taken to prevent further spread of the blaze.
The fire, which has burned 10,095 hectares, prompted evacuations beginning over three weeks ago. Orders for Kingston and Small Point residents were initially lifted on Thursday, with the remaining Conception Bay North alerts removed on Friday, though all areas remained under alert until today.
While the whether has grounded air support, 15 provincial fire crews will remain on site to continue fire management activities.
Authorities are urging those not directly affected to stay away.”This is a highly emotional time for families as they begin the clean up and view their communities for the first time. We do not need people sightseeing this week,” stated Minister of Justice and Public safety John Haggie in a social media post Friday. “Please be respectful of residents that have lost so much through this nightmare.”
Returning residents are advised that some homes may be without power,and those relying on private wells should disinfect and test their water before use. The Salem Community Center in Small Point is operating as a comfort centre,offering meals from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and providing access to ice for those without refrigeration.
