Two wildfires continue to burn out of control in eastern New Brunswick, but officials say no structures have been reported lost.
The Oldfield Road fire, just north of Miramichi, has grown to more than 1,100 hectares, according to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
“At the moment, we are unable to get in front of that fire, but we do have the capacity to help steer it away from people,” Natural Resources Minister John Herron told reporters on Monday.
A second out-of-control fire in the Irishtown area, near Moncton, has now burned 45 hectares, down from an estimated 54 hectares on Monday.
Moncton, Riverview and Dieppe firefighters continue to assist the Department of Natural Resources in their efforts to get the flames under control.
Evacuation advisories remain in effect for residents in the Irishtown, Tankville, Evangeline and Lakeville areas. They have been advised to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice.
“The area of concern has as many as 900 structures in that region that potentially could affect an estimated 1,500 persons,” said Herron.
Additional support
One new fire was reported in New Brunswick has of late Tuesday afternoon but was quickly contained and knocked down, officials said.
In addition to the Oldfield Road and Irishtown fires, there are eight active blazes as of late Tuesday afternoon. Two were contained and eight were being patrolled.
A full complement of 14 air tankers is available, said a department spokesperson. Two additional helicopters have been added for a total of three in service.
An additional 30 firefighters have arrived in the province to help battle the fires, including 20 from Nova Scotia, five from Prince Edward Island and five from Maine.
The province is continuing to urge New Brunswickers to stay out of the woods and away from active wildfires.
Heat warnings continue
It is another hot one across the province on Tuesday. Heat warnings continue for most of the province, excluding Saint John and other areas along the Fundy coast.
Environment Canada has forecasted highs of between 33°C and 36°C on Tuesday, but the humidity will make it feel even warmer at around 42.
Hot and humid conditions are expected to continue on Wednesday, but some relief is forecast for Thursday, along with a chance of showers.
