Fire ban in Labrador after flames force evacuation of more than 100 people

A Newfoundland flag flies in Rocky Harbour, N.L., on Sept. 4, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

ST. JOHN’S — Fires are banned across Labrador as crews battle flames that forced about 120 people to flee a cabin area earlier this week near Labrador City, a mining town home to about 7,450 people.

Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands says more ground crews have been sent to help water bombers and helicopters tackle three wildfires in the area.

Meanwhile, the province has banned all fires, including sky lanterns and fireworks, in the region and the town of Labrador City remains in a state of emergency.

In Newfoundland, the City of St. John’s postponed its Canada Day fireworks display on Wednesday because of a high risk of fire.

Environment Canada called for rain and possible thunderstorms in Labrador City today, followed by rain on Friday.

An online dashboard maintained by the provincial government showed 27 active wildfires in the province, all but two of which were in Labrador.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 2, 2026.

Sarah Smellie, The Canadian Press