Aerial View OF Bocabec And Chamcook Forest Fire Shows The Devastation

540 hectares of Chamcook and Bocabec are still smouldering from the fire that broke out on May 28, 2023 when an ATV caught fire in the woods. An aerial view of the region shows just how wide the fire had spread before first responders could quell its spread. 

Up to 13 local fire departments from across Southwest New Brunswick have been joined by firefighters from the Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development in combating the forest fire. While still designated as an "out of control" fire, DNR has not classified the fire as manageable. The fire management team, while confident in their ability to keep the fire under control, warns that the situation remains fluid and could change at any moment.

On Tuesday, residents who had evacuated their homes were allowed to return, but they were reminded that, due to the warm weather, the potential for a re-evacuation is still possible. Meanwhile, the W.C. O'Neill Arena in Saint Andrews continues to serve as a reception area for those in need from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Due to reduced visibility caused by the fire and the presence of numerous first responders and workers on the roadside, temporary speed limits have been implemented on Highway 127 in Chamcook and Bocabec. Strict enforcement will be maintained, and signs have been put up to inform motorists of the altered limits.

The province continues to fight 15 different forest fires across the province, and the public is urged to adhere to the ongoing burn ban as conditions remain dry.