A wildfire in Annapolis County, Nova Scotia, has destroyed 20 homes, according to government officials. The fire, which remains uncontrolled, has burned an estimated 8,234 hectares, equivalent to over 82 square kilometers. The destruction occurred on Sunday along West Dalhousie and Thorne roads. Not all of the homes lost were primary residences.

Premier Tim Houston expressed his sorrow for the affected residents, stating, "Our hearts are broken for residents in the West Dalhousie community who've lost their homes. It's overwhelming to get that news; it will be a long road to recovery, and I know residents will find comfort through this strong, tight-knit community."

He noted that the situation could have been worse, highlighting that there have been no reported fatalities and that more homes were saved than lost. The province reported that 11 outbuildings were also lost or damaged in the area.

The Municipality of the County of Annapolis has reached out to affected residents and is setting up a program to assist property owners and evacuees. Deputy Warden Dustin Enslow announced that the municipality and province will hire a local navigator to help families dealing with evacuation, loss, and damage. "If people are insured, we encourage you to reach out to the insurance company to start the process, but this navigator will also assist you in supporting that transition," Enslow said. He added that the navigator will be available starting Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Bridgetown Fire Hall, and no appointment is necessary.

Efforts to assess damage to other homes, outbuildings, campers, and trailers will continue when it is safe to do so. Currently, the area is still considered an active fire scene, and officials have stated it is not yet safe for property owners, insurance professionals, or other services to enter.

The wildfire began on August 13, leading to the evacuation of 505 civic addresses, though not all are residential. Kim Masland, Nova Scotia's minister of emergency management, reported that 267 households and 518 individuals have registered with the Canadian Red Cross, although this number does not represent all evacuees. She noted that 88 homes in the evacuation area were equipped with sprinklers, and of those, only three were lost.

As the situation develops, officials continue to monitor the fire and provide support to those affected.