The St. John’s Regional Fire Department is responding to a wildfire within the St. John’s jurisdiction and have initiated the Emergency Command Centre (ECC).

Air Quality

SJRFD is advising residents that a wildfire near the Paddy’s Pond area is causing drifting smoke into St. John’s and surrounding areas, reducing air quality levels.

Residents are advised to keep windows and doors closed and to turn off air exchangers and HVAC units to help reduce indoor smoke exposure. Please contact 811 or see a health-care provider if you experience any concerning symptoms related to smoke exposure such as a severe cough, shortness of breath, heart palpitations and/or wheezing.

Residents are reminded to continue to monitor active air quality statements.

Road Closures

Motorists are advised that the Trans-Canada Highway is now closed between the cloverleaf (Pitts Memorial Drive/Outer Ring Road) and Exit 39 (Foxtrap Access Road). Please avoid the area and delay any non-essential travel on the Trans-Canada Highway. If you must travel through the area, please drive with caution and follow all instructions from police and other emergency responders.

Updates

Stay up to date on the wildfires, road closures and evacuation orders on the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador website and Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Facebook page.

Further information will be provided as it becomes available. Stay safe, stay informed, and monitor local updates for changes.