Government has declared a regional state of emergency for the entire Bay de Verde Peninsula. That does not mean residents have to evacuate, but government can evoke heavy measures to protect life, limb and property.

Government saw the heightened risk earlier with the winds gusting to 40kmh, messing up fire behavior.

Bristol’s Hope to Whiteway is the danger zone, so anybody who does not have to be in that area – “stay away” is the message from government.

Minister John Haggie signed the state of emergency order late this afternoon. It provides a clear chain of command and supports for local departments to have authority – such as who uses what channel of communication.

Haggie describes it as an operational decision.

Premier John Hogan says the situation in CB North is going to continue until at least Monday before they have a clearer picture of the situation.