All remaining evacuees of Long Lake wildfire can return home Saturday: DNR

CITYnews halifax / By Chris Halef

Officials say all remaining evacuees of the Long Lake wildfires can return home Saturday.

The Department of Natural Resources said barricades will remain in place, allowing re-entry for residents only, and not the general public as work and repairs continue on hazards in the area.

“I am thankful to hear that all the remaining evacuees will be returning to their community over the weekend. I can only imagine the relief families are feeling after being told they can come home,” Kim Masland, Minister of Emergency Management, said. “We know that 20 families will be returning and figuring out their next steps. For those who have lost their homes, my heart goes out to you. Please know the Province and the county are here to support you through this time.”

The province said a state of local emergency remains in place in Annapolis County while the active wildfire zone also remains barricaded. Only staff responding to the wildfire are permitted in these areas.

According to DNR, the decision to allow people to go back to their homes is based on an assessment of current fire behaviour, air quality and road access.

Those in Annapolis County are still prohibited from entering the woods.

The size of the fire remains steady at 8,268 hectares.

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