Stephen: Province provides update on wildfires in Central

Today, Premier Andrew Furey, along with Minister of Justice and Public Safety John Hogan and Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Elvis Loveless, held a press conference to update the public on the efforts to fight the ongoing wildfires in Central Newfoundland. One thing that has allowed for the Bay D’espoir Highway to open up earlier today has been cooperative weather. Wind patterns have been favourable, as well as the arrival of some much needed rain. The highway leading to the Connaigre region, however, may not be open for long. Premier Furey cautioned that conditions can change at any time, and that officials are taking it on an hour by hour basis. For the moment, RCMP are on site and the public is advised to take their time driving in the area.

Minister Loveless also said that the opened highway has aided in getting much needed supplies, such as fuel and food, into the Connaigre region. Supply drops were on going via chopper and boat. The Sound of Islay vessel is tied up in St. John’s due to a mechanical issue but may be ready to sail by the end of the week. The government is looking at other options as well, with the MV Gallipoli being looked at as an alternative.

The fires are still considered out-of-control blazes. They have doubled in size since Sunday’s update, now measuring 200 square kilometres and are considered very active. While the fire paths do not currently lead to Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls, or any surrounding communities, smoke levels in those areas are of the most concern. Citizens currently in states of emergency are asked to have go-bags ready and to be prepared to evacuate at any time. Premier Furey also renewed his call to heed the province-wide fire ban that is in place.