Due to the persistently hot and dry weather in southwestern Quebec, open fire bans have been put in place across several regions including Lanaudière, Laurentides, Montérégie, Outaouais, and Abitibi-Témiscamingue.
The announcement by La Société de protection des forêts contre le feu (SOPFEU) came on Friday amidst the presence of 11 ongoing forest fires. By Saturday afternoon, the number had decreased to eight, with four of them located in the Outaouais region and already contained.
SOPFEU highlighted the unusual weather conditions that have led to nearly 80 fires in October alone, a stark contrast to the usual monthly average of 16 fires. Shockingly, the majority of these fires were found to be human-caused.
To prevent further wildfires, a strict ban has been placed on activities like campfires, barbecues, and fireworks in the affected areas, with fines awaiting those who violate the restrictions.
