Last wildfire evacuation order lifted in Labrador, though risk remains

Smoke from a wildfire near a cabin area outside Labrador City, N.L., is shown in a June 29, 2026, handout photo. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - Terry Spurrell (Mandatory Credit)

ST. JOHN’S — People can return to their homes and cabins in western Labrador after officials lifted the last remaining wildfire evacuation order in the region.

However, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Forestry, Agriculture and Lands says those returning to the Walsh River cabin area outside Labrador City must be ready to leave again as the area remains under an evacuation alert.

A news release says the nearby fire is now classified as “being held,” meaning crews have contained its perimeter and are working to put out hot spots.

Officials first ordered people to flee the area on June 29.

Several areas nearby were also evacuated, but those residents were allowed back home last week.

Meanwhile, Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings in parts of western and northeastern Labrador because of forest fire smoke.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 9, 2026.