Community Evacuation Update

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

Update for Evacuated Residents – August 10, 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

  • The safety of firefighters and emergency personnel remains our top priority. As conditions continue to evolve rapidly, ensuring their well-being is essential for ongoing fire suppression efforts and minimizing further losses.
  • Additional structures have been confirmed lost within the evacuated area. Detailed assessments will only be possible once the area is declared safe. We will share more information as soon as it becomes available.
  • The reception centre at Carbonear Academy continues to remain a good place to avail of resources and activities to help you deal the stress of the current situation.
  • Efforts are underway to secure additional hotel accommodations for those displaced. While we understand the desire to stay close to home, please note that there are currently no changes regarding re-entry. Your health and well-being should remain your primary focus.
  • We have been advised that some people have been contacted directly by telephone by what has confirmed to be an insurance scam. The scammers had knowledge of the name of their insurance company and their personal contact information. Please be vigilant and contact your insurance company directly for any communications with them.
  • At the reception center at Carbonear Academy, a variety of personal items like clothing and personal hygiene items are now available.

Current Status

  • The size of the fire has expanded to 4895 Ha and has extended as far North as Western Bay. The Southern Boundary remains relatively unchanged.
  • 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.
  • Evacuations have been completed in Northern Bay, Gull Island and Burnt Point
  • Newfoundland Power has been shut off in Western Bay, and outages are expected to extend into Ochre Pit Cove as the situation develops.
  • Water bombers will focus their efforts on the northern edge of the fire, with additional support directed to the southern perimeter as needed based on evolving conditions.
  • 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.
  • Personnel from the Canadian Armed Forces and Ground Search and Rescue have arrived in the area.
  • The province is receiving additional forestry crews. There are additional aircraft from that will be tasked to the wildfires in the province.

Safety Reminders

  • Follow all instructions from emergency personnel.
  • Keep personal identification and essential items with you at all times.
  • Reach out to reception center staff for any support you may need.
  • If you feel unsafe at any time, please approach center staff.
  • There is significant smoke in the air from both local fires and fires on the mainland. Be aware of air quality alerts. Masks have been requested for the center. Please refer to the following link for guidance, https://www.canada.ca/en/services/health/healthy-living/environment/air-quality/wildfire-smoke.html
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