Recent dry weather conditions in Labrador and forecasted warm temperatures for both Labrador and the island in the coming days have increased the wildfire risk throughout the province.

To reduce the risk of forest fires and to support the efforts of wildfire suppression teams currently actioning active fires, forestry officials are recommending the public avoid lighting outdoor fires while the fire weather index remains elevated.

The forest fire weather index forecast for the province tomorrow ranges from MODERATE to EXTREME for many areas. Residents are reminded open or outdoor fires are not permitted where the index is VERY HIGH or EXTREME and burning permits are invalid where the index is HIGH, VERY HIGH or EXTREME. Provincial fire hazard index maps are updated daily and can be viewed at the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website.

Operators of off-road vehicles should be vigilant when travelling in grassy and forest areas. Use a proper screening or baffling device to prevent sparks from escaping and carry a fire extinguisher with a minimum of 225 grams of ABC-class dry chemical.

There are currently seven active fires burning in the province – all in Labrador. Wildland firefighting crews and waterbombers continue to prioritize suppression efforts on the two forest fires burning in proximity to Churchill Falls. There are currently five helicopters, four waterbombers and 38 ground crew members tasked with operations. This includes an additional 13 personnel that arrived in Labrador on Tuesday. There is no risk to the community at this time.

The latest information on the location, status, and size of active wildfires can be viewed online at the NL Active Wildfire Dashboard.

Provincial forestry officials in conjunction with officials from the Province of Quebec also continue to monitor two fires burning within Quebec to determine if suppression activity is required. One fire is approximately 37 kilometers south of Wabush and the second fire is approximately 55 kilometers south, southeast of Wabush.

For additional information about the 2024 forest fire season, including important wildfire prevention information visit the Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture website or the FireSmart Canada website. To report a wildfire, call: 1-866-709-FIRE (3473).