Thank You Rain, Now Go Away

Rain has transformed the forest fire index across Nova Scotia. Just days ago, the province was a tinderbox as all of the mainland was on high alert for fires in our woodlands. But today, blue is taking over the fire index map.

Blue indicates the fire hazard is low, as the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) map indicates wide swatches of blue. Of course, the area of greatest concern is at the union of Queens and Annapolis Counties, the site of wildfires that have been burning out of control. That area was marked in yellow this morning, indicating a high threat. However, the department's map turned mostly blue this afternoon, and the DNR is forecasting the entire province will turn blue later today, as all areas are expected to enjoy a low threat of fire.

The forecast has not changed the total ban on open fires, nor travel in the woods. Officials will likely review that embargo tomorrow.

It has been a wild time with prolonged periods of hot, dry, sunshine. The weather has been great for tourism and summer sports, but not so great for farmers and firefighters.

Farmers around the province report the loss of some crops and stunted growth of others. At least one farmer in the Six Rivers Region advised she had plowed under her corn because it simply would not mature this year.

While the recent rain has helped to control the fires in Southwest Nova Scotia, it will do little to resurrect crops for farmers. It will, however, make the grass grow green and require it to be mowed again. Rain, rain go away.