A wildfire near Musgrave Harbour is growing in rapid fashion.
In an afternoon update, forestry officials say the fire, which started at about 8:00 last night, has raced about 8 km in 16 hours.
They now believe it is about 1 km from the town.
Firefighters have been up against strong winds that have prevented ground crews from getting to the fire, and crews have been trying to douse the flames with four waterbombers, a helicopter and a bird dog.
Crews are battling the blaze near Musgrave Harbour, which is among multiple in the province. (Photo via Facebook / Roger Jordan Hicks)
Public Safety Minister John Haggie describes the situation as “concerning.”
“I think it’s as close as any that we’ve had, and Badger was certainly just the other side of the river, so it is worrisome – no doubt about it,” he told media during a briefing.
Deputy Minister of Forestry Jamie Chippett says while it remains relatively small, the fire poses a much larger threat to structures.
“In terms of size, I know we talked about potential growth of maybe 750 hectares last night. Obviously some of the bigger fires got to 1,200 or 1,300 or 1,600,” he told reporters.
Crews refueling before going back to fight a fire near Musgrave Habour (Submitted Photo)
“This one’s really close and really active.”
Earlier Story
An evacuation order has been issued for Musgrave Harbour as a wildfire continues to threaten the town.
Forestry officials, describing the threat as “extreme,” estimate the fire is about 2 km from the town.
The provincial government has set up a reception area at the Steele Community Centre in Gander and is asking all evacuees to register with the Canadian Red Cross.
A state of emergency has also been called for the area.
Three waterbombers and a helicopter are in the air as crews continue to knock down one of four out-of-control wildfires.
VOCM News will have more information as it becomes available.
Gander RCMP is advising residents of Musgrave Harbour of the following evacuation order due to a wildfire. Please see the shared post for more information. https://t.co/Scia0e32jY
— RCMP Newfoundland and Labrador (@RCMPNL) July 20, 2025
Previous Story
Residents of Musgrave Harbour have been told to be ready to pack up and go as a wildfire rages near the community.
The fire is currently southwest of the town, near Pine Pond.
The blaze near Musgrave Harbour, flared up over the weekend. (Photo via Facebook / Roger Jordan Hicks)
It comes as crews have been battling three other out-of-control wildfires, including one in Chance Harbour that’s grown in size.
Crews are also battling fires on Random Island and another in Labrador.
Government says it plans on sending a waterbomber to Musgrave Harbour later this morning.
