Western Labrador forest fire doubles in size

A forest fire burning outside two towns in western Labrador is growing substantially, but officials say there is no immediate threat to the communities.

The fire has effectively doubled in size since Monday, and by Tuesday morning was spread across 10 square kilometres.

The fire has also spread across the border with Quebec.

Duty fire officer Eric Young said residents of the mining towns of Labrador City and Wabush will see and smell smoke today because of wind patterns.

"The good news though [is] that the winds are considerably lower today, forecasted [with] lower, cooler temperatures, so that will help us significantly," he said.

Three water bombers, two helicopters and a ground crew will concentrate Tuesday on protecting cabins that are in the path of the fire.

Part of the highway in western Labrador remained closed Tuesday morning.