Update: 2:12 p.m. Tuesday
The battle continues but firefighters say they are making progress on bringing the forest/bog fire burning at the Alvin Runnalls Forest near Morewood under control.
In an update, officials say fire crews are having success in containing the fire to specific sections of the forest, thanks to a combination of firebreaks, rainfall and firefighting efforts.
While the fire is not yet under control, they say it’s fair to say that crews are closing in on that reality. They add that it could still take several days, and weather will continue to be a major contributing factor to the long-term success of firefighting activities at the forest.
The Ministry of Natural Resources officials will remain at the scene, continuing to offer support.
Township officials say they are activating mutual-aid agreements with neighbouring fire services, to maintain staffing levels while also allowing North Dundas crews some respite following days of firefighting.
A state of emergency remains in effect in North Dundas and the cause of the fire has yet to be determined.
Residents in Morewood and surrounding communities may notice smoke and reduced air quality, especially downwind of the forest.
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There’s good news coming out of North Dundas on the forest/bog fire burning at the Alvin Runnalls Forest near Morewood.
In an update Tuesday morning, officials say the blaze burning at the forest has been reduced to 10 to 12 acres from the massive 100-acre fire that erupted sometime over the weekend.
They say it’s also been determined that the best course of action is to fight the fire, now contained to the forest, on the ground. Air assets, at this time, would not provide the most efficient avenue for extinguishing the fire as much of it is now smouldering at the surface, or underground.
Officials say that drought-like conditions this summer means some of the underground hot spots are as much as 50 centimetres below the surface. Firefighters will use equipment to open the ground, to allow for maximum water penetration.
The statement says that North Dundas Fire Services are expected to invoke some mutual-aid agreements with neighbouring partners to allow for the respite of their firefighters.
The Township of North Dundas has declared a state of emergency over the fire and a cause has yet to be determined.
Residents in Morewood and surrounding communities may notice smoke and reduced air quality, especially downwind of the forest.
