Over 100 Wildfires Burning Across Quebec, 19 in South and 88 in North

More than 100 wildfires are burning across Quebec as of 3 p.m. Monday, Cbc reported. Quebec's wildfire prevention and suppression agency recorded 19 fires in the intensive zone covering central and southern areas and 88 in the northern zone.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued an orange air quality warning for parts of northern Quebec. Smoke from the fires is affecting several communities there and areas near Route 389. The access road to Chisasibi, a Cree community near James Bay, is closed until further notice.

Residents and visitors were asked not to attempt to enter or leave the community while emergency operations continue. Simon Legault, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, said people might experience eye discomfort and very poor air quality. He encouraged precautions if going outside.

Legault added that some rain in the next few days could clean the air and help relieve some fires but could also bring a risk of thunderstorms. "That might create some other wildfires," he said. " Mélanie Morin, a SOPFEU spokesperson, said the majority of fires in northern Quebec were sparked by lightning, a lack of rain, and hot, dry weather conditions.

Many fires have appeared along roads that access communities, near communities, or near critical infrastructure such as hydro stations and power lines, she said. Morin noted that with the intensity of these fires it is hard to get crews on the ground at many incidents. She said fires are prioritized based on proximity to human life and critical infrastructure.