UPDATED: 12 p.m.
Provincial crews continue to battle a forest fire in Yarmouth County today.
In their latest update, the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables says 12 crew members and two helicopters are on scene near South Horseshoe Lake.
The department says the fire is estimated to be 25 hectares in size, with winds and humidity as factors in the spread.
They say winds could continue to blow smoke into populated areas.
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A forest fire in northern Yarmouth County is creating smoky conditions.
The fire began yesterday, and continues to burn about two kilometres west of South Horseshoe Lake, near the Yarmouth/Shelburne county line.
A spokesperson with the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables says the fire is estimated to be 50 hectares in size.
Provincial fire crews responded to the blaze and they’ll be back on scene this morning.
Special Air Quality Statement
Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for Yarmouth County, noting the smoke is moving eastward, and may be significantly affecting the air quality in places like Beaver River and Port Maitland.
The forecaster says increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches and shortness of breath are symptoms that could be experienced, and smoke pollution can aggravate issues for people with lung diseases.
Smoke can be seen from visible satellite imagery this evening in the orange box, originating from a forest fire near the red circle in Yarmouth county. Northeast winds will keep the smoke plume between Yarmouth and Bear River. Air quality statement here: https://t.co/TZ6vzf1Hw1 pic.twitter.com/8LxCClN4RG
— ECCC Weather Nova Scotia (@ECCCWeatherNS) May 10, 2022