Canada: A wildfire in eastern Canada has scorched over 24,000 acres, prompting mass evacuations and the closure of a hospital in Labrador City. The ‘extremely aggressive inferno’ was initially under control earlier this week, but a shift in weather conditions caused the rapid fire spread, according to Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey.
The wildfire expanded to 22,000 acres, advancing 13 miles in just four hours. As a result, around 9,500 residents have been evacuated from Labrador City, with essential personnel remaining to manage the emergency response, said Jeremy Reynolds, a spokesperson for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Labrador City, a remote town about 900 miles north of Ottawa, is now facing a wildfire just three miles northwest of its location. Evacuees have been directed to the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
An evacuation order that has been issued warned that the fire could significantly approach Labrador West within the next 24 to 48 hours. Additionally, an evacuation alert has been issued for the neighbouring community of Wabush, advising residents to be prepared to leave at any moment.
The wildfire has also caused the temporary closure of Labrador West Health Centre. All patients, including 45 receiving critical care, have been safely relocated to other facilities within the province. The hospital will remain closed until it is safe to reopen fully.
“Ambulances are stationed in the area to respond to emergency calls, as walk-in emergency services are not available,” the hospital stated.
The wildfire continues to pose a significant threat to the region, with authorities working tirelessly to manage the crisis and ensure the safety of all affected residents.
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