Residents of Adam's Cove and Western Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador were forced to evacuate as a wildfire raged through their communities, prompting officials to declare a state of emergency late on May 7, 2025. The fire, which broke out in the afternoon, has already claimed at least 12 homes and continues to threaten additional properties.
The town's mayor, Curtis Delaney, reported on May 8 that while there have been no injuries, the damage to property is significant. "As far as we know, there's been no injuries. There's been property damage. Homes lost. But everyone is currently safe," he told Radio-Canada. The evacuation order specifically affected residents of Adam's Cove north of Cave Lane, with officials urging people to stay away from the area until it is deemed safe to return.
Evacuation centers have been set up at Persalvic Elementary in Victoria, the AYLA Building in Lower Island Cove, and the Salem Community Centre in Small Point. Reports indicate that around 10 evacuees, along with their pets, sought refuge at the AYLA building on the night of May 7. Volunteer Janessa Wheeler described the situation as "devastating and sad," noting the shock among residents who are unsure if they have homes to return to.
Paul Adams, a town councilor in Small Point, expressed uncertainty about the number of evacuees but remained hopeful that firefighting efforts would bring the blaze under control. "I believe the fire will be brought under control today," he stated on May 8. As of that morning, Route 70, which connects Adam's Cove and Western Bay, remained closed due to the fire, with the RCMP advising the public to avoid the area.
The wildfire is one of several currently affecting the region, with the province's active wildfire dashboard indicating that multiple blazes are being monitored. Another fire has been reported near Harding's Pond in Holyrood, while crews are also tackling wildfires in Fermeuse and Joe's Lake, northwest of Badger.
Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for the Northern Avalon, as smoke from the wildfires has drifted into the metro area, resulting in hazy skies and compromised air quality. Meteorologist Spencer Clements noted that southwest winds are expected to help keep smoke offshore for most of May 8, but the advisory will remain in effect as air quality remains reduced.
The wildfire season officially began on April 24, 2025, in Newfoundland, with a high fire hazard index reported across several areas. The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture had previously issued an advisory warning of the elevated risk of wildfires due to dry conditions following a relatively dry winter.
As the situation unfolds, community members have rallied together to support those affected. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist individuals who have lost their homes, with organizer Heather Rowsell stating, "Such a huge loss for our community, friends, and family. We need to support those in need right now. Some people have lost not just homes but simple things like a toothbrush. Every penny helps right now." As of the latest updates, the campaign has raised $740 of its $20,000 goal.
Mayor Delaney emphasized the need for immediate action to control the fires, expressing hope that water bombers would return to assist in firefighting efforts. He also acknowledged the emotional toll on residents, many of whom are anxious about the status of their homes. "It's heartbreaking to see the damage that a fire can do in such a short period of time," he said.
The provincial government continues to monitor the situation closely, with officials urging residents to remain vigilant as the fire threat persists. "We haven’t had one caused by natural causes yet this year," said Jeff Motty, a provincial duty officer, highlighting that early-season fires are typically ignited by human activity. He also warned that it only takes about an hour and a half of drying time for grasses to cure and become flammable, emphasizing the importance of wildfire prevention.
As crews work tirelessly to bring the situation under control, the community remains united in its efforts to support those impacted by the wildfires. The hope is that, with the combined efforts of local volunteers and firefighting crews, the damage can be mitigated and residents can eventually return to their homes.
