Lake George, Kings County Wildfire

Brian Teepell/USPA 24 News - Emergency responders are presently addressing a confirmed woodland fire located on Aylesford Road in Lake George, Kings County, Nova Scotia.

As of 0900, firefighters on the ground are battling the wildfire. Currently, there is no aerial support on site; however, ground crews are actively managing the area.

Helicopters and water bombers are on standby for potential deployment later today. This fire is not rapidly spreading at this time, and the most recent estimate indicating it to cover around 1 hectare.

As of 1400, the remote wildfire near Lake George (Kings County) is currently being held at approximately 2 hectares. Crews are achieving good progress. While the fire is not spreading at present, strong wind gusts are maintaining a heightened state of alert among crews, and the potential for further spread is being closely monitored. No structures are at risk.

As of 1600, Air support has redeployed to the Lake George wildfire. Conditions have dramatically intensified. The fire is currently out of control and no longer held. Fire is continuing to hold lots of heat and winds continue to gust strongly. Ground crews that were actively fighting the fire earlier are being forced to withdraw. The public should remain out of the area. If residing in the area, monitor and follow any future notifications from emergency services.

The wind-driven wildfire near Lake George is currently out of control and spreading. Emergency vehicles are withdrawing from the staging area, and there are ongoing discussions about closing Aylesford Road. An Evacuation Alert has been issued. Residents in area of North River Rd and Aylesford Rd intersection to G2 Rd at Lake George are to be prepared to evacuate.

Breaking News Statement Issued By Nova Scotia Emergency Management: "EVACUATION ORDER: Immediate Action Required, Lake George (Kings County) Due to the wildfire in the Lake George area, all residents from the southern to the northern boundary of Lake George must evacuate immediately. Please take your pets, essential documents, medications, food, and emergency supplies with you. THIS IS NOT A RECOMMENDATION. YOU MUST LEAVE NOW."

An Emergency Reception Centre has been established at the Louis Millett Centre in New Minas. All evacuees are strongly advised to register upon arrival. Kings County has declared a local State of Emergency for atleast the next 7 days.