Residents are set to return home as the Long Lake wildfire in Nova Scotia is currently under control

The Long Lake wildfire in West Dalhousie, NS, which has been causing concern for residents and emergency services, has seen a positive development. Local emergency management authorities have made the decision to allow more evacuees to return home on Tuesday.

The decision was made based on an assessment of the current fire behavior, air quality, and road access. The fire, which first started burning on Aug. 13, is now being held, meaning it is not likely to grow or move as long as conditions do not change.

Residents are asked to arrive at the 1073 Morse Road checkpoint between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Tuesday. Those who wish to return to their homes must show a valid piece of ID proving their civic address.

The specific addresses that will be reopened include 484 to 1073 Morse Road, 4272 and 4291 Thorne Road, and 49, 77, and 321 Neaves Road.

Kim Masland, minister of Emergency Management, expressed relief that more residents can return home but acknowledged that many still remain under evacuation. She emphasized that they are doing everything they can to bring all evacuees home safely as soon as possible.

Last week, approximately 360 civic addresses were allowed to return home. The Nova Scotia government made this announcement in a news release on Monday.

However, it's important to note that the following areas remain under evacuation orders and are not yet safe for re-entry:

The minister also stressed that while this is a positive step, the fire is still not under full control and could still grow if conditions change. The province has announced that power will be restored once people are back in their homes.

This development brings hope to many affected by the wildfire, but residents are urged to stay vigilant and follow all instructions provided by emergency services.

Residents are set to return home as the Long Lake wildfire in Nova Scotia is currently under control