(Churchill Falls) The Labrador wildfire threatening the evacuated town of Churchill Falls crossed the Churchill River on Tuesday, increasing the risk for the skeleton crew that operates the town’s massive hydroelectric plant.
Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey made the announcement at a news conference in St. John’s, saying there was an increased risk to the plant and the city.
Jennifer Williams, president of Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, taking into consideration the fact that the fire is getting worse, ordered the evacuation of the power station in the afternoon. The Crown corporation plans to operate it remotely from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, a three-hour drive east.
Mme Williams said the power produced by the plant has already been reduced in anticipation of possible evacuations.
She says the reduction in production has no impact on customers in Labrador and Quebec.
Premier Furey said six water bombers were battling the fire.