North Dundas Declares Emergency as Forest Fire Spreads

Fire Ignites in Remote Forest Area

North Dundas, Ont., declared a state of emergency Monday as crews worked to contain a 40-hectare wildfire in the Alvin Runnalls Forest near Morewood, about 45 kilometres southeast of Ottawa. The blaze, which began Sunday evening, spread rapidly through bogland, complicating firefighting efforts due to the terrain’s limited access.

Response Efforts Underway

Local fire crews are leading the response, supported by the Ministry of Natural Resources. The township reported that the fire has so far been contained to the forest itself, with no homes or buildings at immediate risk. Mayor Tony Fraser explained that peat fires pose unique challenges, as they can burn underground and reignite months later.

Residents Urged to Keep Clear

Officials are asking the public to stay away from the area around county roads 3 and 7 to ensure emergency vehicles can operate without obstruction. Residents have also been warned to remain indoors if air quality deteriorates, though no evacuation orders are currently in place.

Conditions Fuel Fire Risk

The fire follows one of the driest summers in the region in recent years, despite rainfall on Monday. Since August, the local conservation authority has been urging residents to conserve water, and fire restrictions remain in effect. Fraser emphasized that the recent rain may provide some relief, but its full impact will not be known until Tuesday.

Cause Remains Unknown

As of late Monday morning, no injuries had been reported, and the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Township officials said further updates would be provided as firefighting efforts continue and conditions evolve.

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