Northern Quebec wildfires prompt road closures near Cree communities

More than 200 wildfires are triggering safety operations and forcing on-and-off road closures in several Cree communities in northern Quebec. Two fires are out of control. The Cree public safety department and the Société de protection des forêts contre le feu are working to put out several forest fires caused by lightning last month.

Reinforcements from British Columbia, Alberta, and Prince Edward Island have arrived to help extinguish some fires.

Road closures and fire locations Some road closures include Muskeg Road between km 20 and km 81, the LA-1 Access Road, Transtaiga Road between km 314 and km 395, and N-810 Road between km 66 and km 156. Fire 300 continues to spread near, but is not moving toward, the community of Chisasibi and the Billy Diamond Highway.

Other fires pose risks to Waskaganish, Wemindji and Eastmain. Neighbouring Cree communities are vigilant even though a full evacuation is not in effect.

Crew operations and weather outlook Key priorities for emergency crews include ensuring public safety and securing vital infrastructure like highways, cell towers, and Hydro-Québec networks. Cree Nation Government public safety teams and the Société de protection des forêts contre le feu are meeting every day to monitor fires in all regions.

As of July 9, over 84,000 hectares have burned so far. The drought and the heat remain concerning because there has not been much rain in the region. This year's Eeyou Istchee Summer Games are scheduled to take place in Chisasibi from July 20-25. It is not yet clear if the games need to be canceled or postponed.