‘Extreme’ levels of fire danger present in some regions of Quebec

Unseasonably warm weather and lack of precipitation have resulted in elevated and even dangerous risks of fires in Quebec.

Quebec’s forest fire protection agency (SOPFEU) is urging caution as October’s unseasonably high temperatures and lack of wet weather have pushed the fire danger index to “very” and even “extreme” levels in parts of the province.

The danger is particularly pronounced in the southwest of the province, from Pontiac to Montreal’s North Shore, and 75 forest fires have broken out since the start of the month.

SOPFEU says 99 per cent of them were caused by human activity.

The agency says that the 10-year average for the entirety of October is 16 forest fires a month.

“Although the situation is under control, it remains a major challenge for the SOPFEU, as most of the seasonal staff — including wildland firefighters — had already completed their work period,” SOPFEU said in a news release. “The recall of several firefighters and auxiliary personnel made it possible to respond effectively to the large number of fires that have occurred over the past three weeks.”

Over Thanksgiving weekend, SOPFEU and municipal fire departments were sent to seven new forest fires.

“Even though temperatures have cooled in recent days, there has still been no significant rainfall, maintaining widespread drought conditions, particularly in the southwest,” SOPFEU said.

An open fire ban remains in effect in the following areas:

• Centre-du-Quebec
• Estrie
• Lanaudiere
• Laval
• Montérégie
• Montreal
• Outaouais

“We evaluate it daily, and if need be, it will be expanded to other areas,” said SOPFEU spokesperson Melanie Morin. “The fire danger does fluctuate from day to day, depending on the humidity levels, [and] the wind speed.”

Environment and Climate Change Canada is not calling for rain until Monday.

SOPFEU reports 10 active fires on Friday, with none of them listed as “out of control.” The agency is reminding residents to check with municipalities about rules and fire bans.

“In October, fallen leaves, wilted vegetation, and dry brush become highly flammable. Even after a rainfall, just a few hours of sunshine combined with a bit of wind can cause the fire danger index to rise again,” the agency says.

“Discarded cigarette butts, campfires, off-road vehicles (ATVs), and the burning of vegetation are among the leading causes of vegetation fires.”