Forest fire contained, evacuations partially lifted near Musquodoboit Harbour

Evacuations from a forest fire near Musquodoboit Harbour, Halifax County have been partially lifted.

It’s happening in the Ostrea Lake area, it was estimated to be about 40 hectares in size, but by 8 p.m., DNR said it was down to about 30 hectares.

A partial re-entry based on DNR’s recommendations started at 8 p.m., for residents of Ostrea Lake Road from civic number 320 north to Highway 7, Birchwood Lane, Lailia Lane and Sunset Lane.

An evacuation order remains in place until further notice for Ostrea Lake Road from civic numbr 320 south as far as civic number 655, Reflection Lane and Heselton Drive.

Highway 7 was closed but re-opened as of 5 p.m. Sunday, Ostrea Lake Road remains closed.

RCMP say they’re remaining on scene in case conditions change.

Fire contained

The fire is now contained, according to Joe Triff, the vice-president of the Halifax Professional Firefighters Union.

He tells Acadia News that he doesn’t know if any homes have been damaged, but he believes there are no injuries.

The union says rain arrived in the area Sunday evening and strong progress has been made, the situation has stabilized, and resources are gradually being released from the scene.

Crews remain on scene until dark, to return Monday morning.

100 homes evacuated

Local councillor David Hendsbee told our newsroom, about 100 homes were evacuated.

‘It’s deja vu, it’s my fourth wildfire since I’ve been on council. People are a little more patient, but people need to be cautious and prepared to leave at a moment’s notice,” said Hendsbee.

Started early afternoon

Halifax firefighters responded around 1:30 p.m. Sunday.

Firefighters were focused on structure protection for much of the afternoon.

Community support

A comfort centre has been set up at the Eastern Shore Community Centre on Park Road in Musquodoboit Harbour.

Eastern Shore MLA Kent Smith shared updates on social media, and urged citizens to follow public officials for updates, and to stay safe.

The Dartmouth SPCA asked residents who need help with their animals to get in contact with them.

People close to the fire are asked to shut all doors and windows, shut down air exchangers and stay inside until conditions improve.

Many community members are willing to help those evacuated, including the Jeddore Lodge and Cabins, who offered a discounted rate.

Halifax County is currently under a burn ban.

*with files from Caitlin Snow