New Brunswick lifts evacuation advisory in Lavillette as fire is contained. Province still battling 39 active wildfires, seven out of control.
Residents Allowed to Return Home
An evacuation advisory for Lavillette, a northeastern New Brunswick community, was lifted Sunday morning after officials confirmed progress in containing a nearby wildfire. Residents had been on standby since Friday, prepared to leave at short notice as flames threatened the area.
Status of Local Fire
The blaze, covering 8.5 hectares south of the community, is now considered contained within a bulldozed break and wet line. While officials say it remains under control, the fire could still escape if conditions worsen.
Provincial Fire Situation
Across New Brunswick, 39 wildfires were burning as of 5 p.m. Sunday, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Seven fires remain out of control, including the Oldfield Road fire near Miramichi, the largest in the province at 1,402 hectares.
Expanding Threats in Northumberland County
Two fires in Northumberland County continue to grow. The Chief’s fire has surged to 218 hectares, more than quadrupling in size within 24 hours, while the Beaver Lake Stream fire spans 100 hectares and is still burning out of control. Gloucester County is also battling a 120-hectare fire under the same classification.
Smoke and Air Quality Concerns
Environment Canada has issued an air quality statement for the Miramichi area due to smoke, though the Emergency Measures Organization (EMO) is monitoring reports from other regions. Local fire departments, including Oromocto, Harvey, and Upper Kingsclear, say they are fielding a high number of smoke-related calls.
Safety Precautions for Public
Officials continue to urge residents not to operate drones near active fire zones, as interference hampers firefighting operations. EMO stressed that community cooperation is vital in preventing additional hazards during suppression efforts.
Weather Could Offer Relief
Forecasts suggest some relief for firefighting crews. Showers and thundershowers are expected across parts of the province Sunday, beginning in the northwest and moving eastward through the afternoon. Daytime highs will reach between 24 and 28 C, with rain tapering off by nightfall and temperatures dipping to 8 C.
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