Premier John Hogan announced an evacuation order for residents of Badger shortly after noon on Wednesday.

The government is urging Badger residents to go to Grand Falls-Windsor as a wildfire burns near the town. Busing will be provided to people who can’t get out on their own. For residents who don’t have anywhere to go, they can gather at Joe Byrne Arena.

Evacuees are strongly encouraged to register with Canadian Red Cross upon arrival at the arena.

“Motorists are asked to avoid unnecessary travel in Badger and along Route 370 (Buchans Highway) while efforts continue to battle a nearby forest fire,” the RCMP posted on X. “Please refrain from stopping on the roadway to observe or take pictures as it creates an additional hazard.”

Wildfire suppression resources are in place and there will be three waterbombers in place today. A province-wide fire ban is now in effect.

The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is at Level 2 and is actively monitoring this situation. Emergency management partners have been engaged to respond, where necessary.

Updates on conditions, resources and assistance will be made available continuously throughout this evolving situation.

Currently, the fire covers about 500 to 600 hectares. It’s believed the fire started as a result of a lightning strike.

Original Story:

The community of Badger has posted an evacuation alert on its Facebook page as a forest fire burns near the town.

“Please be advised that due to the fire burning in the vicinity of Badger we have been instructed by Fire & Emergency Services to inform residents that our town is now under an Evacuation ALERT,” the community posted.

“Fire & Emergency Services will continue to monitor and update the fire and we will issue updates as they become available. Please be prepared in the event that such an evacuation could possibly take place throughout the day. For information or updates please contact the Town Office at 709-539-2406.”

The Department of Fisheries, Forestry and Agriculture has wildfire suppression ground resources and air support dealing with the fire. Two waterbombers have been dispatched.

The Provincial Emergency Operations Centre is at Level 2 and is actively monitoring this situation. Emergency management partners have been engaged to respond, where necessary.

NL Hydro has advised the reduction of amount of energy being transmitting over the Labrador-Island Link Transmission Line to minimize impacts to customers.