ST. JOHN’S, N.L. – Two out-of-control wildfires in central Newfoundland covered more than 200 square kilometres on Wednesday morning, and Environment Canada warned the flames could cover much of the island in smoke.
Jeff Motty, the province’s forest fire duty officer, says the latest estimates suggest the largest fire now encompasses an area of about 170 square kilometres – up from about 106 square kilometres the day before. The second fire, which is burning nearby and is next to the Bay d’Espoir Highway, covers an area of nearly 58 square kilometres, Motty said in an interview Wednesday, adding that smoke has abated somewhat and allowed for better estimates.
There are cabins within the perimeter of the largest fire, and some are in danger, he said.
“But just because your cabin is within the fire perimeter, does not mean it’s burnt,” Motty said. Water bombers…
