HALIFAX — Nova Scotia's largest wildfire destroyed 20 homes in the Annapolis Valley over the weekend as dry winds fanned the flames of the Long Lake fire that continues to burn out of control.

Minister of Emergency Management Kim Masland said 20 homes and at least 11 outbuildings, such as sheds or garages, were destroyed or seriously damaged Sunday.

"My heart breaks for what you're going through. I can't even imagine the stress this devastation has put on you and your family," Masland said during a news briefing Thursday.

The lost homes were on West Dalhousie, Morse and Thorne roads, though not all of the destroyed buildings are primary residences.

The minister said 88 homes in the evacuation area had sprinkler systems in place, and only three of those homes were lost in the blaze.

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