Community Evacuation Update

Town of Small Point, Broad Cove, Blackhead, Adam's Cove

Update for Evacuated Residents – August 13, 2025, 12:00

Dear Residents of Burnt Point, Gull Island, Northern Bay, Ochre Pit Cove, Western Bay, Small Point to Adams Cove, Kingston and Perry’s Cove, Salmon Cove

Key Messages

  • Adverse weather conditions continue to pose significant challenges for firefighting operations.
  • Due to intense fire behavior, forestry teams are concentrating suppression efforts on both the northern and southern flanks of the fire to prevent further growth.
  • Monitoring is ongoing within the fire perimeter and in surrounding communities. Fire crews and forestry personnel will re-enter affected areas once conditions are deemed safe.
  • On the southern edge near Perry’s Cove, a sprinkler line is being deployed as part of the suppression strategy.
  • Work continues on a fire guard in Burnt Point
  • The Town and other parties are coordinating to begin assessments of properties in the fire area.  Ensuring the safety of personnel entering these areas remains the highest priority, and assessments will only proceed when conditions are confirmed to be safe.
  • The provincial government has imposed a ban on the use of all off road vehicles in forested areas in high fire index areas. The ban is in place until Sunday, August 17 at which time it will be reviewed.

Current Status

  • The size of the fire has expanded and has extended further into Ochre Pit Cove. The southern boundary remains relatively unchanged with small advancement to the south.
  • Newfoundland Power has turned off power in Ochre Pit Cove, and outages are expected to be extend as the situation develops.
  • Another active fire day is expected based on forecast temperatures and winds.
  • Evacuation orders remain in effect for all affected areas. PLEASE RESPECT THE BOUNDARIES INCLUDING THE TRAILS. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO ENTER THE EVACUATION ZONE ON AN ATV.
  • Air assets are being deployed into areas that will provide most effective.
  • The fire department will apply foam to homes in advance of the approaching fire to help reduce the risk of damage.
  • There is no timeline for return
  • The reception center at Carbonear Academy remains open and staffed; residents are encouraged to utilize this facility for support and resources. The center is not just for shelter.
  • Essential supplies, including food, water, and medical services, are being provided at the site.
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