ACTIVE! Woodland Fire Update Center
GNB Fire Watch Website: https://www.gnb.ca/en/topic/laws-safety/emergency-preparedness-alerts/fire-watch.html
Fire Preparedness
Wildfires can spread quickly. Taking steps now to be prepared can help protect you, your family, and your property.
NEWS CONFERENCE NOTICE: Wednesday, August 13th 2:30PM
A news conference providing an update on the wildfire situation will take place at 3:30 p.m. today, Wednesday, August 13.
STREAM IT LIVE HERE: https://www.youtube.com/live/62x1g5ZolRQ
Government of New Brunswick Update — Oldfield Road Woodland Fire
Tuesday, August 13, 12:00 p.m.
Fire Status — Impact on Alnwick Region
Fire size: Over 1,300 hectares
Active fires: 16 total
2 out of control (Oldfield Road near Miramichi, Irishtown)
1 under control
13 being actively patrolled
New fires: 6 reported in the last update
No structures reported lost
Firefighting Resources
14 air tankers available
3 helicopters in service (2 recently added)
30 additional firefighters on the ground:
Nova Scotia: 20
Prince Edward Island: 5
Maine: 5
Evacuation Preparedness
Residents in potentially affected areas should prepare a 72-hour emergency kit including:
Water, non-perishable food, pet food
Flashlight, radio, extra batteries
First aid supplies, prescription medications
Masks (for smoke), cash
Community Reminder! Check on friends and neighbours, especially those who may require assistance.
Water Conservation — Important for Alnwick Residents
Water levels across New Brunswick are below normal, and no significant rain is forecast.
Alnwick residents, most of whom rely on private well water, are urged to use water responsibly to help maintain supply:
Avoid washing vehicles, watering lawns, or filling pools.
Limit non-essential outdoor water use.
Use washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads.
Take shorter showers.
Install low-flow faucets where possible.
Check and repair any leaks immediately.
Prolonged drought can reduce groundwater recharge rates, so mindful use is important for maintaining safe well levels.
Stay Informed
The province will provide two daily updates and hold regular news conferences.
Today’s news conference: 2:30 p.m. — update on the wildfire situation.
Monthly provincial water level updates are available through the New Brunswick Water Quantity Information website.
IMPORTANT NOTICE to Alnwick Residents: Water Conservation Alert!
August 12th, 2025 | 5 PM
The Government of New Brunswick has issued a warning about significantly low surface water and groundwater levels across the province due to recent heat waves and a lack of rainfall. This situation is particularly important for the Alnwick community, where many residents rely on private well water for their daily needs.
Groundwater levels in eastern and southeastern areas—including Alnwick—are well below normal and continue to decline. Without meaningful rainfall in the near future, these conditions are expected to worsen. It is crucial for all residents, especially those dependent on wells, to take immediate steps to conserve water.
To help protect our water supply, the Department of Environment and Local Government recommends the following:
Avoid washing vehicles
Refrain from watering lawns
Do not fill swimming pools
Use washing machines and dishwashers less frequently and only with full loads
Take quick showers to minimize water usage
Consider installing low-flow faucets
Check for leaks in faucets, toilets, and plumbing and repair them promptly
Every effort counts to maintain the health of our water resources. For ongoing updates on water levels, please visit the New Brunswick Water Quantity Information website.
Thank you for your cooperation in conserving this vital resource.
—
Municipality of Alnwick
New Brunswickers encouraged to conserve water
12 August 2025 | Environment and Local Government
FREDERICTON (GNB) – New Brunswickers are being encouraged to conserve water as surface water and groundwater levels are lower than normal throughout the province.
“Recent heat waves, coupled with low precipitation over the last few weeks, have affected water levels,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Gilles LePage. “A slow and steady rainfall over several days is needed to help improve low water levels, so we are asking everyone to do what they can to conserve water.”
Stream flows are below the long-term normal for most of the province, except in the northwest where they are normal. All-time-low stream flows have been observed at several sites in the northeast, southeast and along the Bay of Fundy coast.
Groundwater levels at eastern and southeastern monitoring sites are well below normal, with groundwater levels at all monitoring sites throughout New Brunswick on the decline. With no significant precipitation in the immediate forecast, conditions are expected to continue to decline.
LePage said everyone should be thinking about how they can reduce water use, whether they are on a private well or on a municipal system.
The Department of Environment and Local Government suggests the following ways for people to conserve water:
avoid washing vehicles
avoid watering lawns
avoid filling swimming pools
use washing machines and dishwashers less frequently and with full loads only
take quick showers to minimize water used for washing
consider installing low-flow faucets
check for leaks in plumbing systems, such as faucets and toilets, and repair as necessary
Updates on water levels are available on the New Brunswick Water Quantity Information website. The site is updated monthly and contains summaries of precipitation, stream flow and groundwater levels.
SOURCE: https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/news/news_release.2025.08.0331.html
Alnwick Municipality Update — Tuesday, August 12 at 12:00 p.m.
Wildfire Status Near Alnwick:
The wildfire near Miramichi has grown and now covers over 1,100 hectares.
There was a short delay last night in updating the FireWatch website, but it is now accurate and current.
Please be aware that firefighters on the ground who are actively battling the fire are also the ones providing these updates. Because of their critical work, information is updated periodically throughout the day when possible.
Emergency Preparedness Reminder for Alnwick Residents:
If you live in or near areas potentially affected by the fire, please ensure your household is prepared with an emergency kit to last at least 72 hours. Your kit should include:
Water
Non-perishable food
Flashlight
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Extra batteries
First aid supplies
Prescription medications
Pet food (if applicable)
Cash
Community Support!
Please check in on your neighbours, especially seniors or those who may need assistance. Helping each other now can make a difference if an evacuation is required.
Additional Fire Information Affecting the Region:
There were 7 new fires reported yesterday in the province.
Currently, 12 fires are active in New Brunswick:
2 out of control (Oldfield Road near Miramichi and Irishtown)
3 contained (including Bathurst)
7 being actively patrolled
Firefighting resources supporting the region include:
14 air tankers available
3 helicopters currently in service
10 firefighters arrived from PEI and Maine
20 more firefighters expected tomorrow from Nova Scotia
No structures have been lost at this time.
Stay informed and register for Voyent Alert, the official emergency notification system, to receive timely updates from Alnwick Municipality.
Cooling Station Open Today - August 12th - 10:30 AM
A cooling station will be available today from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
📍 Club Sportif Lagacéville
1926 NB-450, Alnwick Parish, NB E9G 2M6
The facility is air-conditioned, with bottled water and washrooms available.
New Locations Added:
📍 Fr Morriscy Centre, Bartibog
88 Bartibog Church Rd, Bartibog Bridge, NB E1V 7H3
Open until late evening, August 12, 2025
Water and air conditioning available.
📍 Barryville Golden Age Club
1850 Hwy 11, Barryville, NB E9G 4J4
Open August 12, 2025
Water and air conditioning available.
The facility is air-conditioned, with bottled water and washrooms available.
If you or someone you know needs relief from the heat, please make use of this space. Stay safe and hydrated.
Please see the following statement from our mayor:
We understand there is growing concern and confusion surrounding the wildfire in our region. Please know that we are committed to providing clear, accurate, and timely information to help keep our community safe.
We will continue to share verified updates from the Province of New Brunswick (EMO and DNR) on our municipal website: www.alnwick.ca and our Facebook page: @ruralcommunityofalnwick
Rumours & Misinformation
We ask residents to avoid spreading unverified information. If you have questions, please refer to official sources or contact the municipality directly.
Get Alerts on Your Mobile Device
To receive real-time emergency notifications, we encourage everyone to sign up for Voyent Alert. https://www.alnwick.ca/register-voyent-alert
This free service will send important updates directly to your phone, including evacuation notices, shelter locations, and safety instructions.
Please Do Your Part to Be Fire Safe
We all have a role to play in protecting our community. Whether you're at home, on the road, or enjoying the outdoors:
- Follow all fire bans and restrictions issued by the province.
Avoid activities that could spark a fire, including outdoor burning, tire spinning, using fireworks, or operating equipment near dry vegetation.
- Report any signs of fire or smoke immediately to 911.
Keep your property clear of debris and flammable materials to reduce risk.
- Your actions matter. Let’s work together to keep our community safe
Thank you for your cooperation and resilience. We’re in this together.
Mayor Ernest Robichaud
Wildfire Update – Oldfield Road Fire August 12th 9:00AM
As of Tuesday, August 12 at 9 a.m., the Oldfield Road wildfire remains out of control and has grown to 1,120 hectares. Efforts are focused on steering the fire away from homes and residential areas.
URGENT: Make sure your family and friends are signed up for emergency alerts. Register now for Voyent Alert at https://www.alnwick.ca/register-voyent-alert
Firefighting Efforts:
Efforts are focused on steering the fire away from homes and residential areas.
Firefighting crews are receiving additional support from Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Maine, along with Air Attack helicopters for targeted water drops and a Canadair CL-415 water bomber.
Road Closures:
A section of Highway 8 near Miramichi is closed between Route 450 and Oldfield Road. Russellville Road and McHardy Road are also closed, with traffic being redirected toward Neguac. Travel in the area should be avoided.
Public Safety Reminder:
Boaters: Stay clear of CL-415 water bomber operations—entering these areas is dangerous and delays firefighting.
Drones/Aircraft: Wildfire airspace is off-limits to all non-firefighting aircraft.
Fire Ban Status: Extremely High Fire Risk. Extremely dry and dangerous conditions mean the risk of new fires remains high. A province-wide burn ban is in effect, all Crown lands are closed, and activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, off-road vehicle use, and forestry operations are prohibited until further notice.
For official information, please refer to the following resources:
Alnwick Fire Updates: https://www.alnwick.ca/oldfield-woodland-fire-updates
Fire Preparedness Guidelines: https://www.alnwick.ca/fire-preparedness
Current Air Quality Index: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/nbaq-005_e.html
Oldfield Road Wildfire – Key Updates for Municipality of Alnwick
Date: Monday, August 11, 2025
Fire Status: 450 hectares, burning out of control, but being steered away from people and residences.
Highway Closures: Highway 8 between Route 450 and Oldfield Road is closed. Russellville Road and McHardy Road are also closed. Traffic is being diverted toward Neguac—avoid the area.
Resources Deployed: Assistance requested from Nova Scotia, PEI, and Maine; air attack helicopters and large water bomber planes deployed.
Public Access Restrictions:
All district offices of the Department of Natural Resources are closed to the public.
Province-wide burn ban in place - Due to extreme wildfire hazard.
All Crown lands closed; no hiking, camping, fishing, vehicle use in the woods, or trail access.
Forestry operations suspended.
Air Quality / Qualité de l'air: Special Air Quality Statement in effect - view here
Preparedness / Préparation:
Encourage friends and family to register for Voyent Alert HERE
Wildfires can advance rapidly. Preparing in advance is the best way to safeguard yourself, your loved ones, and your home. View information HERE
News Release from Department of Natural Resources
Firefighters continue battling wildfires; extreme caution urged as dry conditions continue
11 August 2025
FREDERICTON (GNB) – Staff from the Department of Natural Resources and other agencies continue to fight wildfires in various areas of the province as hot, dry weather envelopes the region.
Three of these fires remain out of control: one in the Irishtown district of Maple Hills, another north of Miramichi, and one in the Bathurst region.
Extremely dry and dangerous conditions present the risk of additional fires. A burn ban remains in place for the entire province, and all Crown lands are closed. Hiking, camping, fishing and the use of vehicles in the woods are not permitted, and trail systems through woods are off limits; private property owners are strongly encouraged to follow the same approach.
Forestry operations such as harvesting, forwarding, skidding, scarification, chipping and all pre-commercial thinning and cleaning are prohibited.
“Conditions in our province are very dry and hot right now, and that puts us at real risk for our existing fires to grow and for new fires to start,” said Natural Resources Minister John Herron. “Our priority right now is safety: keeping our residents and first responders out of danger. As part of that, we need New Brunswickers to stay out of the woods and take precautions to limit the likelihood of accidentally starting additional fires.”
Given the current conditions, people should be prepared to evacuate and are reminded to gather all essentials, including medication and important documents, as well as pets and supplies, so that they do not need to return to an evacuated area.
At this time, residents of the Irishtown, Évangéline and Lakeville districts of Maple Hills, as well as the Tankville district of Moncton, should have an evacuation plan and be prepared to leave on short notice. An Alert Ready message will be issued in the event an evacuation order is issued. All New Brunswickers are advised to stay informed through trusted sources such as the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization and the provincial government’s social media channels.
The government has requested assistance from its neighbours, and firefighting teams will start arriving tonight.
“To reiterate the severity of the current wildfire situation, for the first time in New Brunswick history, we have requested help from our neighbours,” said Herron. “We've always been a good partner to other provinces and territories, and even to other countries, when they needed it.”
In addition, as of 4:30 p.m. today, all district offices of the Department of Natural Resources will be closed to the public to allow staff to focus on firefighting efforts.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the department’s Fire Watch page.
People are reminded to take precautions when heavy smoke affects air quality. Infants, children, pregnant women, older adults, smokers and people with chronic heart or lung disease should stay indoors to reduce their exposure to the outdoor air. If smoke conditions become severe, people may experience eye or throat irritation and possibly shortness of breath. People should adapt their activities as necessary.
Anyone with difficulty breathing or chest discomfort should consult their physician or contact Tele-Care 811. People in severe distress should immediately call 911.
SOURCE: https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/news/news_release.2025.08.0329.html
GNB Press Conference Monday, August 11th 3:30pm Live Stream
Wildfire Update - Recording via YouTube
FIRE WATCH Website - GNB - Up-to-Date Resource
The Fire Watch page from the Government of New Brunswick offers critical, up-to-date information on wildfire activity, safety guidance, burning regulations, and emergency alerts. It includes:
Wildfire updates & situational alerts—including Crown land closures and evacuation readiness under extreme wildfire risks.
Safety advice—from evacuation planning and emergency kit checklists to air quality precautions and mental health support.
Burning status updates—daily burn notices during wildfire season and interactive tools like dashboards and maps for permitted burning zones.
Wildfire reporting guidance—how and what details to provide when reporting an unattended fire to authorities
NEWS CONFERENCE NOTICE: Monday, August 11th 3:30PM
A news conference providing an update on the wildfire situation will take place at
3:30 p.m. today, Monday, August 11.
STREAM IT LIVE HERE: https://youtube.com/live/IhPI_hViOcA?feature=share
UPDATE FROM: Government of New Brunswick - Situational update - FIRE BAN - EXTREME WILDFIRE HAZARD
As of 12:01 a.m. Sunday, August 10, all Crown land in the province will close due to an extreme wildfire hazard.
As a result of extremely dry and dangerous conditions, the closure of Crown land will see all industrial and recreational activities prohibited on Crown land. We are also encouraging private landowners to take the same precautions. People currently at camps on Crown land are encouraged to leave by midnight. In addition, people are also being asked to avoid using private wood lots and woods roads.
The restrictions on Crown land include:
hiking, camping, fishing and the use of vehicles in the woods are not permitted
trail systems through woods are off limits
camping is allowed only in campgrounds, but the public is being asked to reconsider their camping plans until such time the forest fire risk decreases
Private property owners are also strongly encouraged to follow the same approach.
Along with our fleet of air tankers, we also have two skimmer planes from Quebec in action that can land on and scoop water from lakes or other bodies of water, then drop it on wildfires. New Brunswickers are asked to stay away if they see these planes near water for the safety of the pilots and themselves.
Special Air Quality Statement in effect for: Miramichi and area - August 11th
Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. Smoke from nearby wildfires is reducing local air quality. Locations: Miramichi and vicinity
Short range wind forecast: Generally light southwesterly winds expected today.
Remarks: Smoke from a local wildfire is reducing air quality in these areas and downwind. Local smoke concentrations will vary with small changes to wind speed or direction.
People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.
You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.
Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.
Air Quality Health Index:
There is a high probability that smoke from active wildfires will impact the air quality in certain regions of New Brunswick this week. A heat alert is also in place, which can make the effects of smoke worse, especially for vulnerable people.
Be aware of your symptoms
Reduce levels of physical activity as necessary
Limit time spent outdoors
Check the quality of the air in your region by visiting: https://weather.gc.ca/.../pages/provincial_summary/nb_e.html
For Health precautions for wildfire smoke, visit: https://www2.gnb.ca/.../healt.../content/air_quality.html...
If you are experiencing difficulty breathing or chest discomfort, call your physician or contact Tele-Care 811. If you are in severe distress, call 911 immediately.
Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution. Always follow guidance from local authorities.
