A fast-growing wildfire has triggered a full evacuation of Western Bay, N.L., with residents of Ochre Pit Cove on alert. Fire crews battle extreme conditions.
Western Bay Under Immediate Evacuation
Residents of Western Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, have been ordered to evacuate immediately as an out-of-control wildfire intensifies in the Conception Bay North (C.B.N.) region. The directive was issued late Monday night, citing “extreme wildfire behaviour.”
The evacuation order was formally released by the provincial government at 11:30 p.m., with officials urging residents to travel north on Route 70 and register at the Canadian Red Cross reception centre located in Persalvic School Complex, Victoria.
Neighbouring Community on High Alert
While Western Bay faces direct evacuation, residents of Ochre Pit Cove—located nearby—have been placed under an evacuation alert, meaning they should be prepared to leave at short notice. Authorities stress that the situation remains volatile and can change rapidly.
Fire Activity Intensifies Overnight
In a 9:30 p.m. public advisory, the government described the fire as “very active” near Small Point–Adam’s Cove–Blackhead–Broad Cove and Kingston. Although firefighting crews had maintained the fire’s perimeter for much of the day using water bombers, helicopters, and ground support, a late evening surge caused the fire to expand into the southwest edge of Small Point–Adam’s Cove.
The fire’s estimated size prior to the surge was approximately 156 hectares, though updated measurements have not yet been released.
Emergency Power Shutdown Implemented
At 11:00 p.m., Newfoundland Power confirmed a power shutdown in areas from Kingston to the end of Adam’s Cove. The move was made in coordination with emergency services to support ongoing wildfire response efforts and to reduce fire hazards.
Shelter and Registration Details
Evacuees are being directed to shelter at Persalvic School Complex in Victoria, where the Canadian Red Cross is assisting with accommodations. Residents choosing to stay elsewhere must still register by calling 709-729-0921 to ensure accountability and safety during the emergency.
A Growing Trend of Wildfires in the Region
This fire marks the latest in a series of wildfires affecting Newfoundland and Labrador in recent months, raising concerns about increasingly extreme weather patterns and the region’s capacity to manage prolonged wildfire activity.
Provincial officials continue to monitor the fire’s spread and say updates will be provided as the situation evolves.
