The Minister of Forestry is relieved with a turn in the weather in Lab West that officials believe will significantly improve the forest fire situation in the area.

Rain is in the forecast for the region for the remainder of the week.

That comes as a great relief for forestry officials, firefighters, municipal leaders and residents as well.

Minister Pleaman Forsey says the last few weeks have been a trial with more than 20 fires in the region.

“The rain is certainly helping out,” says Forsey, “I must say, our crews, officials, waterbomber pilots, helicopter pilots, ground crews, everyone involved, community leaders, fire departments, everyone involved as done an exceptional job.”

As of yesterday there were 24 active wildfires in the region, with six listed as under control and three as held. The remainder are being monitored as they are burning in remote areas far from homes or infrastructure.