‘Paying it forward’: Manitoba sends water bombers to aid in Nova Scotia wildfire fight

Paul Hollingsworth talks to evacuees, residents and firefighters as an out-of-control wildfire continues to burn near West Dalhousie, N.S.

Manitoba is joining the wildfire fight in Nova Scotia.

Premier Wab Kinew posted the news on X, saying two CL415s and a Bird Dog aircraft with an air attack officer left Tuesday to help douse flames in the eastern province.

They join a fleet of aircraft and fire crews from at least four provinces and territories.

“Manitobans know wildfire’s toll,” the premier wrote.

“Now we’re paying it forward, supporting from coast to coast.”

A spokesperson for the province told CTV News two water bomber groups will remain in Manitoba, each consisting of two bombers and one Bird Dog aircraft.

There is also one spare bomber in reserve, the spokesperson said, adding the majority of the local response is being handled with ground crews and helicopters.

Out east, Nova Scotia’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates that province’s largest wildfire is 3,210 hectares. It is burning in the West Dalhousie area near homes, a community centre and a few communication towers, DNR said.

- With files from CTV’s Natalie Lombard and Andrea Jerrett