Despite efforts to contain the blaze, the wildfire in Churchill Falls has crossed over the river.
Premier Andrew Furey learned about the situation after he was passed a piece of paper in the middle of a news conference updating people on the status of the blaze.
He says there is now a heightened risk of fire on the community side of the river.
In an update on the Churchill Falls website, following the progression of the fire and under direction of Forestry officials, those on the ground in the community are being safely evacuated in a phased and orderly manner.
Evacuees are asked to check in at the Happy Valley-Goose Bay YMCA. Those who head to Labrador City must check in at the RNC detachment.
The Trans-Labrador Highway has now been closed between Churchill Falls and Labrador City-Wabush.
Wildfire Knocks Out Power in Labrador West
The fire has caused lines to trip, cutting power to residential and commercial customers in Labrador West. NL Hydro says they’re pulling resources from Hydro Quebec to restore power, but say it may not be enough to serve all affected customers, meaning rotating power outages are possible. The supply from Quebec will only aid residents, leaving industrial customers, including IOC and Tacora, in the dark.
Tense Few Days Ahead, Says Premier
The Premier says the escalation of the fire is concerning and the next 24 to 48 hours will be critical.
Furey says it’s very concerning, but it’s premature to say what the will happen with the fire in a new scenario. Highlighting the steep bank on the river and the “incredible amount of fuel in front of it,” which could cause rapid spread of the fire.
Furey says the weather is not favourable over the next couple of days, with a shift in the winds and humid conditions.
As the forest fire near Churchill Falls has just jumped the river, there is an increased risk to the evacuated community and power plant. We thank everyone for their quick, calm response as remaining people evacuate. The safety and well-being of everyone is our top priority pic.twitter.com/Gds3iHOHq0
— Premier of NL (@PremierofNL) June 25, 2024