Wildfire update and ATV ban in place

Provincial officials provided an update this morning on the wildfires across the province.

As of this morning, there are no more evacuation alerts or orders.

On Tuesday evening, the Premier had a call with the Prime Minister. Hogan said Carny is up to speed on the situation and will help in any way that's needed.

Another asset has been acquired, a Raptor helicopter from Alberta will arrive in the next couple of days.

Kingston Fire

The fire is 6400 ha and has grown on the northern edge. There are fuel breaks installed on the north side. This morning, there are ground crews and air crews on the southern edge.

Paddy's Pond Fire

The Paddy’s Pond Fire was monitored closely overnight. It remains very hot and smoky and has seen some growth on the northern edge. The southern edge is 250 metres from the Trans-Canada Highway. There are fuel breaks installed. There will be ground crews, six tankers, and members of the St. John's Regional Fire Department.

Residents are advised to be prepared to leave their homes on short notice. If an evacuation order is issued, residents will not be able to return to their homes and should plan accordingly.

Martin Lake Fire

The fire has not crossed Route 360, but the highway will remain closed. The fire is 300 to 400 metres west of the highway. The fire is 800 ha in size and continued fire growth is expected today.

There are 30 firefighters on the ground, four helicopters, a bird dog aircraft, and other air assets. There has been no structural loss.

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Two fines have been issued, one for an individual using an excavator in forested land and one corporation for conducting mulching in forested land.

There is also a province-wide off-road ban in place. ATV use is not permitted on forested land. This will be reassessed on August 17.