Evacuations Ordered, Residents Begin Returning as Rain Helps Contain Blaze

On Sunday afternoon, Halifax authorities announced that some residents who had been evacuated due to a forest fire were being allowed to return to their homes. Provincial officials reported that rain was falling and the fire was under control.

Earlier in the day, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) had begun assisting with evacuations after issuing a statement about a forest fire in Musquodoboit Harbour, located approximately 45 kilometers east of downtown Halifax. The police also requested that other residents avoid the area. The Halifax Regional Municipality later confirmed that some evacuees could return, while an evacuation center would be available for those unable to do so.

The Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources reported on social media that the fire was contained at around 30 hectares and that rain was present. Fifteen firefighters were scheduled to remain at the scene until nightfall and would return the following day. A helicopter that had been assisting the firefighters was departing.

A spokesperson for the Halifax Professional Fire Fighters described the fire conditions as serious, fueled by dense brush, dry vegetation, and strong winds. Fire crews had been withdrawn from the woods for safety reasons and were concentrating on protecting structures. However, a later social media post from the union indicated that the situation had improved.

The Halifax Regional Municipality issued a news release stating that Halifax firefighters and the RCMP would remain in the area overnight to monitor the situation. Residents near the fire were advised to keep windows and doors closed, turn off air exchangers, and stay indoors until air quality improved. A comfort center was established at the Eastern Shore Community Centre in Musquodoboit Harbour, which would also serve as an evacuation center for those unable to return home.