The Septilians, evacuated for five days due to threatening forest fires, can go home. The mayor of the city of Côte-Nord, Steeve Beaupré, announced the news at a press conference on Tuesday, eliciting many reactions of joy from his population.
Residents of the Plages, Moisie, Lac Daigle and Mani-utenam communities had to leave their homes on Friday afternoon because of fire number 172, which had come dangerously close to the municipality.
On Tuesday morning, authorities ruled the fire no longer posed a threat.
“Even if the immediate danger is averted, vigilance will remain in order over the coming weeks,” said Mr. Beaupré.
The mayor explained that critical infrastructure, such as the water plant and communication towers, are no longer in danger. The rain, which started overnight, gave firefighters a helping hand, he added. Several millimeters, up to 50, are expected by the weekend.
The minister responsible for the region, Kateri Champagne Jourdain, confirmed that the weather conditions played an important role in lifting the evacuation notices.
“It’s much better this morning,” she said, in a tone of relief. “The rain that arrived during the night changed the situation considerably. »
“But we will have to remain cautious and on the lookout in the coming weeks and throughout the summer,” she nuanced.
Prime Minister François Legault is due to travel to Sept-Îles on Tuesday morning to meet with civil and municipal authorities. He will also discuss SOPFEU firefighters.
Schools in Sept-Îles, which were closed on Monday and Tuesday, are expected to reopen on Wednesday.