Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources has stated that additional evacuations may be necessary as a wildfire near Lake George in the Annapolis Valley remains uncontrolled. Residents living in Birch Lane, Spruce Drive, and Blue Lane at the southwest end of Aylesford Lake have been advised to be prepared for potential evacuation.
The fire, located in Kings County, started on Sunday and is currently estimated to cover 150 hectares. Initially thought to be 300 hectares on Monday night, officials clarified on Tuesday that this overestimation was due to thick smoke conditions.
According to Jim Rudderham, the director of fleet and forest protection at DNR, the cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but human activity is suspected as there have been no lightning strikes in the area.
While no structures have been harmed, 275 civic addresses have been evacuated, and 56 others are on alert for evacuation, including some cottages. Evacuees are being directed to register at a comfort center in New Minas, regardless of their accommodation plans.
Residents under evacuation alerts are urged to be ready to depart swiftly with essential items if instructed to do so. Moreover, individuals are advised to leave immediately if they feel unsafe. Some residents, like Chris Levy, living near the evacuation zone, have proactively chosen to evacuate out of caution.
The wildfire has already led to evacuations between Kingswood Camp and Fox Mountain Camping Park, from Old Mill Lane to Simpson Cove Lane, and along both sides of North River Road to Aylesford Lake Beach.
Authorities are taking the situation seriously, with a crew of 23 DNR and 20 local firefighters present on-site. Additionally, air support from six planes and three helicopters has been deployed to contain the fire, which is moving from the northern part of Lake George towards the northern end of Aylesford Lake.
Dave Corkum, the mayor of Kings County, emphasized the importance of residents complying with evacuation orders to prevent loss of life and property damage. He noted the rapid growth of the fire, expressing concern over the dry conditions and the challenges faced by firefighters due to unpredictable winds.
The community has shown solidarity and support during this crisis, with individuals like Heidi Tupper, owner of Fox Mountain Camping Park, acting swiftly to ensure the safety of residents and animals in the face of the advancing wildfire.
The evolving situation underscores the critical need for caution and preparedness as residents and emergency responders work together to mitigate the impact of the Lake George wildfire.
