LETHBRIDGE, N.L. — A rapidly spreading fire near the Sexton Lumber sawmill on Route 233 has forced residents in the Bayview area of Lethbridge to evacuate their homes immediately. Authorities say the fire is dangerous and moving quickly, prompting emergency measures to protect people and property.
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier John Hogan took to social media to advise residents that those living from Oldford's Hill to Southwest Bridge and Forest Drive must leave their homes. Anthony Paddon Elementary School has been set up as the evacuation centre where residents can gather safely and receive support.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Ground Search and Rescue teams are actively helping with the evacuation. Route 233 has been closed in both directions to all traffic, and motorists are being asked to avoid the area until it is declared safe.
The province’s Department of Forestry and the local fire department are on the scene, battling the flames. Water bombers have been deployed to fight the fire from the air, helping to prevent it from spreading further into residential areas.
The Triple Bay Eagles Ground Search and Rescue team is also assisting with the evacuation and providing guidance to residents, ensuring that everyone leaves the area safely. First responders are coordinating efforts to manage the situation, which remains serious due to the fire’s proximity to homes and wooded areas.
For residents like Kayla Dillon, the evacuation was terrifying. Dillon left her home Sunday evening with her spouse, four children, and dog. She estimated that the fire was about one and a half kilometres from her home.
"We saw the smoke billowing up. It was just white at first, so we were kind of optimistic," Dillon said. "But suddenly, a big yellow ball of smoke appeared. I'm absolutely terrified."
She first learned of the evacuation through social media and was later contacted by members of the Lethbridge local service district. Dillon said her family was lucky to leave quickly and hoped that the small spacing between her home and the surrounding wooded area would be enough to prevent the fire from reaching her property.
Authorities emphasize that evacuating immediately is the safest course of action during fires. RCMP officers and emergency personnel are ensuring that residents follow instructions to avoid danger. They are also guiding residents to the designated evacuation centre at Anthony Paddon Elementary.
Officials have reminded residents in nearby areas to remain alert and prepared for potential evacuation orders if the fire spreads. Road closures, particularly on Route 233, are essential for the safety of both the public and emergency crews.
Community members have been actively helping each other during the evacuation. Neighbours have been assisting families who may have difficulty leaving quickly, such as elderly residents or those without transportation. Volunteers and local organizations are working at the evacuation centre to provide food, water, and temporary shelter for affected residents.
Premier John Hogan praised the emergency crews and community volunteers for their efforts, saying, “We are grateful for the dedication of our first responders, search and rescue teams, and the support of the community during this challenging situation. Safety of residents is our top priority.”
While the exact cause of the fire is under investigation, the location near the Sexton Lumber sawmill and surrounding wooded areas has allowed the flames to grow quickly. Officials report that dry conditions and wind have contributed to the rapid spread, increasing the risk to homes in the Bayview area.
Authorities are working to contain the fire and prevent it from reaching more residential areas. Water bombers, ground firefighting crews, and emergency management teams are coordinating strategies to control the blaze from multiple angles.
The fire has affected numerous families in Lethbridge, forcing them to leave their homes with little warning. Many residents expressed fear and anxiety as they watched the smoke and flames approach their neighbourhoods.
Kayla Dillon described the experience: “We were watching the smoke, and suddenly the fire seemed much closer. It escalated so fast that we barely had time to grab essentials and leave. We’re just hoping our home is safe.”
Local authorities encourage residents to pack important documents, medications, and essential items in case evacuation continues for an extended period. Families are also advised to stay in contact with the evacuation centre for updates on the fire and safety measures.
The RCMP and Ground Search and Rescue teams are actively managing the evacuation routes and helping families reach the designated centre safely. Firefighters and forestry officials are using all available resources, including water bombers and fire suppression equipment, to control the flames and protect both people and property.
The situation is dynamic, and officials continue to monitor weather conditions, wind patterns, and fire behaviour to adjust their response as needed. Evacuations may be expanded if the fire spreads beyond its current location.
Authorities have issued the following advice for residents in the Bayview area:
Evacuate immediately if ordered
Follow all directions from first responders
Avoid Route 233 and other roads near the fire
Gather at Anthony Paddon Elementary evacuation centre
Stay updated through official social media channels and local announcements
Evacuation centres provide shelter, food, and support for affected residents. Emergency teams are prepared to assist families with special needs, including elderly individuals, young children, and pets. Firefighters continue to monitor the fire’s progress and work to contain it safely.
Authorities remind the public that evacuations are precautionary and designed to prevent injuries or fatalities. Residents are urged to remain calm, follow instructions, and help others in the community if possible.
Officials are hopeful that firefighting efforts will contain the fire before it reaches more homes. Meanwhile, families are adjusting to temporary shelter arrangements and waiting for updates from emergency personnel.
The community has come together to support those affected, and local authorities are coordinating with provincial agencies to ensure safety and provide necessary resources. Residents are encouraged to stay alert and follow official guidance until the fire is fully under control.
A fire near Sexton Lumber sawmill in Lethbridge, N.L., has forced immediate evacuation of the Bayview area. Emergency services, including RCMP, local fire departments, search and rescue teams, and water bombers, are responding to the blaze. Residents like Kayla Dillon shared their fear as flames approached homes, while evacuation centres provide temporary shelter and support. Authorities emphasize following orders, staying safe, and monitoring updates as firefighting efforts continue.
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