More evacuations due to Lake George fire, burn ban extended

There is a new evacuation order in effect for Aylesford Lake.

According to an update from Nova Scotia Emergency Management on Wednesday morning, residents are required to immediately evacuate due to the wildfire threat.

This mandatory evacuation order now includes, in addition to previously evacuated areas, Aylesford Road from and including Fox Mountain Campground to Civic 3847 Aylesford Road, all residences on Spruce Drive, Birch Lane, and Blue Lane, as well as all residences between 5 North River Road and 1493 North River Road.

Residents are advised to take pets, important documents, medications, food, and emergency supplies with them when evacuating.

An emergency reception centre has been established at the Louis Millett Centre in New Minas.

All evacuees are required to register upon arrival at the reception centre.

As of 10:53 a.m. Wednesday, the Department of Natural Resources says the fire is now estimated at 290 hectares and remains out of control.

Wildfire season

The wildfire season has been extended until October 31.

The province says the full burn ban will remain in effect for Annapolis County with daily burn restrictions that will continue everywhere else in the province until the end of the month.

Minister Tory Rushton says we have never seen wildfire activity so late in the season and taking this step will ensure safety.

“The daily burn restrictions are based on science, data and our staff’s expertise and experience. Extending the restrictions to the end of the month means we’ll have a better chance of avoiding more fires.”