Firefighters are engaged in a prolonged battle against a massive blaze in the Amelia’s Ward area of Linden, which has been active for over 12 hours as of Friday morning. Thick smoke from the fire continues to impact residents in nearby communities.
According to regional officials, the fire remains active in a valley near sawmill operations. However, firefighters have successfully managed to contain it and prevent it from spreading further. Regional representative Dominique Blair provided an update, stating, “The fire is still burning in the valley area, but at this time it is not spreading.”
Firefighters are focusing on soaking the edges of the affected area to safeguard surrounding neighborhoods from potential flames. Despite these containment efforts, heavy smoke is affecting locals in the area.
Authorities have advised residents experiencing difficulties or needing temporary relocation to reach out to the Region 10 Disaster Preparedness Team and the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) for assistance. Those requiring relocation support can contact 505-0127.
Blair noted that the situation is being closely monitored as firefighters continue their efforts to extinguish the blaze. This incident has reignited concerns among residents and officials, particularly as it follows a major sawmill-related fire in April 2025, which left surrounding communities blanketed in smoke for days.
In the aftermath of last year’s disaster, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and sawmill operators convened to discuss strategies to prevent similar incidents. The EPA also considered relocating sawmill operations and identifying alternative waste disposal sites.
Member of Parliament Sharma Solomon expressed grave concern over the recurrence of such fires. “The fire now raging in the Amelia’s Ward community, linked to the sawmills, is completely unacceptable,” he stated. Solomon highlighted that the community had previously endured significant hardship and warned that the reemergence of this issue poses serious questions about regulatory oversight and environmental management.
He emphasized that nearly 2,000 residents in South Amelia’s Ward were severely affected by the previous fire and could now face similar health risks from smoke and air pollution. “This situation is not simply about a fire; it is about the safety and well-being of residents,” he remarked.
Solomon called for accountability and stronger enforcement of environmental and safety standards for industrial activities within the community. Regional officials confirmed that emergency teams remain on alert while firefighters work to bring the blaze under control.
Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and seek assistance if conditions worsen.
