No new damage as Long Lake wildfire burns out of control

Crews are working to get evacuees home as soon as possible as the Long Lake wildfire remains out of control and appears to be larger than recent estimates.

The Department of Natural Resources said last week the fire was estimated at  8234 hectares.

According to Sunday’s DNR update, the new estimated size is 8465 hectares based on more precise measurement.

There are no new reports of damage.

DNR says, “Favourable weather is helping crews make good progress, but they have not yet completed a line around the entire fire zone.”

The department adds that fire breaks along some sections of the perimeter are nearing completion. “Work is focused on the northern end of the fire to prevent spread toward communities and allow firefighters to advance from the outside in to fight the fire.”

Resources include 10 helicopters, 6 planes with bird dogs, 16 DNR, 48 Ontario, 40 Quebec and 59 local firefighters, plus about 50 pieces of heavy machinery.

Meanwhile, wildfire smoke will reduce air quality in Annapolis, Kings and Lunenburg counties on Sunday.