Evacuation Orders Lifted For Remainder of Conception Bay North — August 29, 2025
The Provincial Government has lifted the evacuation order for Western Bay, Ochre Pit Cove, and the remaining portion of Northern Bay, effective immediately. All residents are now permitted to return to their communities, but these areas remain under an evacuation alert, meaning residents should remain ready to leave again if conditions change.
Safety First While Returning
While it is safe to return, officials stress caution. Fire crews and equipment remain on scene to monitor hot spots, and smoke will still be visible at times. Residents may also encounter debris and are reminded to call 911 if they spot smoke. Please follow instructions from first responders and the Canadian Red Cross.
Comfort Centre and Support Services
A Comfort Centre has been established at the Salem Centre in Small Point, open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The centre offers:
Onsite support from the Canadian Red Cross, NL Housing, health professionals, and Team Rubicon
Food and water from the Salvation Army food truck
Clean-up kits and important resource guides for returning residents
Mental health, primary care, and community support services (8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. daily)
Other Key Information
Power: Most homes have power restored, but support is available at the Comfort Centre for those still without.
Water: Residents with private wells in affected areas should not drink, cook, or brush teeth with well water until it is tested and cleared. Free chemical and bacteriological testing kits are available.
Garbage & Appliances: Disposal bins have been set up in Western Bay, Ochre Pit Cove, and Northern Bay. Spoiled appliances can be dropped off at designated areas—contents must be removed before drop-off.
Communications: Landlines and internet remain impacted. A Cell on Wheels (COW) and a Starlink system are in place at the Comfort Centre to improve connectivity.
Transportation Support: Buses will be available today from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. for residents returning home. Call 709-729-0921 if you need transport. Pets must be in carriers.
Team Rubicon: Now accepting requests for property recovery assistance. Call 709-800-0414 or email request_assistance@teamrubicon.ca.
Officials ask that non-residents avoid these communities to allow evacuees the space and time they need to return home safely.
For ongoing wildfire updates, visit gov.nl.ca/alerts.