HRM asking evacuated residents to use comfort centres and not to try and return to their homes

CITYnews halifax\ By Dan Ahlstrand

Authorities continue to stress the mandatory nature of evacuation orders, emphasizing that residents must comply with instructions issued by local authorities, including police, firefighters, and ground search and rescue teams. Returning to homes is strictly prohibited until municipal authorities confirm the area is safe.

Map of area under evacuation orders as a result of the Tantallon fire

The Canada Games Centre, located at 26 Thomas Raddall Drive, remains open until further notice as residents of Halifax Regional Municipality cope with ongoing wildfires. In response to the escalating crisis, HRM has established several comfort centers have been established to provide aid and support to affected individuals.

The Black Point and Area Community Centre, situated at 8579 St Margarets Bay Road, opened its doors at 7 a.m. today and will operate until 9 p.m. tonight. Similarly, the Beaver Bank Kinsac Community Centre, located at 1583 Beaver Bank Road, will assist during the same hours.

In addition, residents are urged to avoid the affected regions, refraining from capturing photographs or videos of the fire area, including the use of personal drones. Furthermore, a ban on all off-highway vehicles within Halifax Regional Municipality has been implemented immediately, ensuring that first responder resources are solely allocated to firefighting efforts.

Teams are currently assessing the extent of the damage caused by the wildfires, with updates and further information to be provided to residents as soon as possible. The situation remains fluid, and the community is urged to stay vigilant and cooperative as efforts to combat the fires continue.