More evacuees returning home as Annapolis County wildfire still held

CITYnews halifax / By Natasha O’Neill

More people who have been away from their homes for weeks are returning on Tuesday after crews continued to hold the Annapolis County wildfire.

In an update, the province said that 17 primary addresses can start re-entry from Thorne Road and West Dalhousie Road between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. with a valid piece of ID showing their address.

Those properties include:

• 8 and 28 Spectacle Lake Rd.
• 122 Medicraft Lane
• From 5606 to 6160 West Dalhousie Rd.

“We are so grateful for the hard work being done by everyone involved in the Long Lake wildfires response. It’s reassuring that more residents can return to their homes on Tuesday,” said Kim Masland, Minister of Emergency Management. “For those still waiting to return home, we know this has been a long road for you – your patience and resiliency is unmatched. Please know we are working as hard as we can to bring you home safely.”

Related:

• More evacuations lifted in Annapolis County as wildfire considered held
• Efforts from crews save memorial, buildings from Annapolis County wildfire

There are people no able to return home, which includes all of Heartland Road, Medicraft Lane (except the residence listed above) and Thorne Road (except for the two addresses on last week’s list). Decisions for re-entry are based on the fire’s behaviour, air quality and access to the roads to the homes.

On Sept. 8, the Department of Natural Resources announced crews had managed to hold the blaze at 8,468 hectares. This, according to officials, means the blaze is not likely to grow or move as long as conditions don’t change. It is still not under control, the press release notes.

“Tuesday is another hopeful step forward as more residents return to their primary homes. We know seasonal property owners are also eager to see their places,” Diane LeBlanc, Warden, County of Annapolis, said. “A site visit will be arranged soon, and limiting traffic right now is important for everyone’s safety. I’m grateful to the Province, our community partners and especially our evacuees for their patience and cooperation. Please know we will continue to stand with you – for as long as you need us.”