The offensive strategy is being employed by wilderness firefighters to tackle Quebec’s forest fires rather than just reacting to them, said Maïté Blanchette Vézina, the natural resources minister. The coordinated approach is possible due to support from other areas, including a team of wilderness firefighters from France. Although there are still 131 fires ablaze in Quebec, the number of uncontrolled fires has declined from 28 to 44. However, it’s still too risky to allow evacuated communities to return. Blanchette Vézina hopes to discuss this possibility for Chibougamau, Que and the surrounding area with local officials today and on Monday but the overall situation remains unfavorable.
Because no precipitation is anticipated in affected areas before Tuesday, the flammability index remains high.