The States of Emergency in Grand Falls-Windsor, Bishop’s Falls, Botwood and the Connaigre Peninsula will be lifted as of midnight tonight.

The change is being made due to an improvement in the forest fire situation in central Newfoundland, however Public Safety Minister John Hogan says the fires are ongoing, and can be unpredictable.

The decision to lift the States of Emergency was based on a number of factors including air quality, fire behaviour and weather conditions.

Officials indicate that the current forecast is showing favourable weather conditions for the next few days.

Earlier today the shelter set up by the Canadian Red Cross in Deer Lake was officially suspended and residents who made use of the shelter are being sent home.

Th Bay D’Espoir Highway remains open, but forest access roads remain closed and cabin owners are still being asked not to enter the area to check on their properties.