Nova Scotia’s Digby County Wildfire Has Spread to 80 Hectares, Still Out-of-control

Nova Scotia’s Digby County is currently dealing with a massive wildfire that has spread to 80 hectares. It was around six to eight hectares as of Monday evening but has now spread to a much larger area. There were 10 firefighters at the scene with 15 more being called in from other parts of the province.

A fire broke out on Monday afternoon in Nova Scotia’s Digby County in Hassett, near Weymouth. As of Monday evening, the fire was around six to eight hectares but has now spread to 80 hectares and is still out-of-control. Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) firefighters were on the scene and spokesperson Erin Lynch stated that 15 more are traveling from other parts of the province.

While no formal evacuation orders have been issued yet, some voluntary evacuations in the Hassett area are taking place. Residents have been advised to check and follow the daily burn restrictions. “Nova Scotians can do their part to prevent wildfire by being mindful around their homes and structures on their properties, ensuring enough clearance to reduce the risk of fire spread from forest to home,” Lynch said.

Meanwhile, Nova Scotia’s auditor general has called out the provincial fire marshal’s office for failing to manage fire and building safety, despite repeated warnings through a series of audits. The report that focuses on buildings such as hospitals, schools, and long-term care facilities showed that 40 percent of fire inspections were completed late.

This is a developing story. More to come.

Vineet Washington