Wildfire Update – July 6, 2026 (11:18 AM)
There is no significant change in wildfire conditions to report since yesterday’s update.
Forestry crews, air support, and response partners continue to make steady progress on suppression efforts in the Walsh River area. Forestry reports that there was no fire growth over the weekend, and crews continue to strengthen containment lines, address hotspots, and complete suppression work around the fire perimeter.
The primary focus over the next two days remains the forecasted warmer and drier weather conditions. Forestry has advised that significant resources are in place and crews continue to take proactive measures to reduce the potential for increased fire activity.
Current resources supporting suppression efforts include four water bombers, multiple helicopters, ground crews from Newfoundland and Labrador and Nova Scotia, the Incident Management Team, and structural protection resources including the Labrador City Fire Department with support from Rio Tinto IOC. Forestry reports they are well positioned to respond should fire activity increase over the next two days.
Forestry advised that having four water bombers positioned in Labrador West is unusual and reflects the current provincial wildfire situation. Recent rainfall in many other parts of Newfoundland and Labrador has reduced fire danger levels elsewhere, allowing additional air resources to be concentrated in Labrador West while conditions here remain the Province’s highest priority.
Residents may notice increased aircraft activity in the area today and tomorrow as suppression efforts continue. Water bombers and helicopters are being used proactively to target hotspots and reduce fire risk ahead of the forecasted weather conditions.
Boaters, anglers, and recreational users in the Duley Lake area are asked to exercise caution and remain aware of ongoing water bomber and helicopter activity. Please maintain a safe distance from aircraft operations and follow any direction provided by emergency personnel.
Residents may also notice increased smoke at times. Forestry has advised that some smoke visible in the region may be associated with fire activity in Quebec, including the Bloom Lake area. Forestry is aware of the situation and continues to monitor wildfire activity both within Labrador West and in neighbouring jurisdictions.
The Evacuation Order remains in effect for the Walsh River Cabin Area.
The Evacuation Alert remains in effect for:
- Duley Lake
- Throne Lake
- Tamarack Golf Course Road Area
Residents in Alert areas should continue to remain prepared should conditions change.
The Town’s Emergency Operations Centre remains active and continues to work closely with Forestry, Fire Services, Provincial officials, RNC, and response partners.
We thank residents for their continued patience, cooperation, and support as response efforts continue.
The Town will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide additional updates as required.