Despite considerable improvements in the situation of forest fires in Quebec, there are still concerns, especially in the north of the province, warned Premier François Legault.
There were 109 active fires in Quebec as of noon Monday, according to the Society for the Protection of Forests Against Fire (SOPFEU). More than 9800 square kilometers are affected.
On the sidelines of an announcement in Sainte-Sophie, Mr. Legault pointed out that despite the progress of the last few days, the authorities were on the alert, particularly in Nord-du-Québec and Haute-Mauricie.
At this time, little precipitation is expected at these locations.
At this time, with international assistance, more than 1,500 firefighters are fighting the blazes, added Mr. Legault.
The Prime Minister also called on citizens to follow the instructions of the authorities for their safety.
“I know it’s not fun to leave your house, but when you’re told to evacuate, it’s because there is a real risk,” he said.
Stability in Lebel-sur-Quévillon
Meanwhile, the citizens of Lebel-sur-Quévillon continued to return home after an evacuation of several days. About two-thirds of the population have returned home so far, according to Mayor Guy Lafrenière.
In a virtual press briefing on Monday morning, Mr. Lafrenière said that the return home went very well on Sunday.
He added that the fire progressed little, due to the winds which died down. It now covers 3300 square kilometers.
The mayor, however, called on citizens to respect the rules in place, because the flammability index remains high.
“I repeat: ban on open fires, fireworks, ban on going into the woods. We ask you to respect the instructions, ”he insisted.
Mr. Lafrenière also encouraged his citizens to remain ready in case the area had to be evacuated again.
“It is worth preparing. If we don’t evacuate, so much the better, but we have to be ready. »
In addition, Route 113 remains open for the time being.