A massive forest fire near Saint Andrews had forced an unknown number of people to evacuate their homes.

The blaze is burning in the Bocabec and Chamcook area and smoke is visible from kilometres away.

The fire was about 50 hectares as of around 8 p.m. Sunday, according to the Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development.

Spokesperson Nick Brown said crews were battling the flames from the air and the ground.

The Town of Saint Andrews sent an alert saying evacuation orders had been issued for areas of Bocabec. Mayor Brad Henderson said emergency services are going door-to-door in affected areas.

According to New Brunswick EMO, evacuations are taking place along Bocabec Ridge Road to Creighton Road. Residents not living in the evacuation area are encouraged to self-evacuate if they feel the need to.

The W.C. O’Neill Arena Complex is open for anyone needing to leave their homes, and the Canadian Red Cross has cots on the way for evacuees. There is also a generator on-site if you need to charge your phone.

Route 127 is currently closed at Glebe Road heading north toward Route 1, according to NBEMO

Meanwhile, more than 3,200 homes and businesses in Charlotte County lost their electricity as a result of the fire, according to NB Power.

In an email around 8 p.m. Sunday, spokesperson Dominique Couture said impacted customers would have their power restored shortly.

Residents are also stepping up to offer help to those evacuating who have livestock. Saltwinds Farms Ltd and Matheson’s Farms have room along with trailers to assist with the move.