Renewed wildfires force Val-d’Or to once again evacuate parts of the municipality.
• Read more: Wildfires and National Holidays: Fireworks are prohibited north of the St. Lawrence
• Read more: Forest fires: Legault says the situation is still dire
• Read more: Heat can increase the risk of fire
“It’s encouraging,” says Leonie LeBlanc, owner of Villebon Decor, who is busy managing the departure of about fifty campers, chalet tenants and workers who need to pack up.
Everyone had to leave the Lac Gueguen, Lac Matchi-Manitou and Lac Villebon sectors before 7pm on Tuesday following an evacuation order issued by the town of Val-d’Or on Tuesday afternoon.
“I have to cancel three days’ worth of clients. It’s a lot of hassle and a waste of money. We don’t know which foot to swing anymore,” sighed Mrs. LeBlanc.
“Out of Control”
In a press release, the city of Val-d’Or notes that the evacuation will remain in effect “for an indefinite period.”
She summons n fireoh 297 again “no control”, according to the Society for the Protection of Forests Against Fire (SOPFEU). 1 The fire was caused by lightningR June reached 19,506 hectares, we can read on the SOPFEU website.
The three targeted sectors were already under an evacuation order on June 3, which lasted for over a week, while the fire was brought under control.
Clothing from Lac Villebon, but clothing from Lac Matchi-Manitou and Lac Guéguen had to be sent home for the first time.
A “worrying” situation
On Monday, Quebec Premier Francois Legault said the wildfire situation was “worrisome” due to dry weather and a lack of rain.
A heat wave hit the entire province, especially northwestern Quebec.
Environment Canada is predicting 30-degree temperatures throughout the week for the Abitibi-Temiskamingu, Chibucamaw area and areas near James Bay, ideal for fire restarts.
No wildfires currently threaten the urban area of Val-d’Or, however, the city noted in its press release.
