'Tremendous' effort keeps wildfire south of Churchill River, says N.L. Hydro
CBC
Fire suppression activities efforts Thursday have kept the wildfire near Churchill Falls to the south banks of the river for the time being, says Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro.
"As a result of this tremendous suppression effort, the fire has not crossed the river and there is no advancement towards the community," according to a statement posted on Hydro's website at 10:40 p.m. Thursday.
On Wednesday night, forestry officials ordered the hasty evacuation of Churchill Falls, a company town that exists to keep Hydro's generating station running. The massive plant provides power to the province and about 15 per cent of neighbouring Quebec's power.
Dozens of people stayed behind in the community following the evacuation order to keep the plant operational. So far the fire hasn't reached the community.
There are two major fires west of Churchill Falls, separated from the town only by the Churchill River.
In an earlier interview with CBC News, provincial forest fire duty officer Bryan Oke said he hopes the river will help firefighters with their efforts.
Forestry officials have also brought in sprinklers to help suppress fire around the town's facilities and protect property.
At the moment, there is a crew of about 40 workers in the community to keep the power station operational, as well as police officers and firefighters.
The statement added there is no immediate risk to the plant but the situation is being assessed.
"There are many considerations in determining an approach to production should teams receive direction to evacuate, including spilling requirement and downstream impacts, asset protection, and remote monitoring capabilities."
According to the province's online wildfire dashboard, there are now 11 active fires burning in the province, up four from Thursday.
There are three new fires in Labrador — at Atikonak Lake, Joseph Lake and Milner Lake West No. 2, all listed as burning out of control
In addition, a new fire on Newfoundland's west coast, at South Branch, is listed as being held.
Forest fire duty officer Mark Lawlor says the source of that fire is under investigation.
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