Wildfires Threaten Menihek Dam as Heat Wave Hits Labrador

A growing forest fire near the Menihek hydroelectric dam in Labrador West has expanded significantly, tripling in size on Sunday and reaching 1,039 hectares by Monday morning. With seven wildfires burning in Labrador, four are out of control and three are being held. The Menihek Dam fire, located about 160 kilometers north of Labrador City, is particularly concerning due to its proximity to the hydroelectric station and a nearby railroad. Efforts to control the fire include the deployment of air tankers and water bombers. Additionally, a heat dome is expected to settle over Atlantic Canada, increasing temperatures and potentially exacerbating the wildfire situation. Meteorologists predict a brief period of high temperatures, which will then drop later in the week. The public can stay informed about wildfire statuses through the province’s new wildfire dashboard, updated four times daily.