The community of Chibougamau announced Tuesday night the mandatory evacuation of all its citizens.
• Also read: [PHOTOS] ‘It’s like being on Mars’: The smoke brings apocalyptic vistas to Quebec communities
• Also read: Truck drivers on the front line to serve communities isolated by the fires
• Also read: Wildfires: Legault is open to increasing budgets to deal with natural disasters
“Program change. We have received a message from SOPFEU. The fire spread much faster than expected. Your safety is our top priority,” said Chibougamau Mayor Manon Cyr.
Given the situation, the mayor declared a state of emergency and around 8:15 p.m. announced the mandatory evacuation of the entire city, including the resorts.
“We have time and ask you to evacuate calmly,” added Manon Cyr.
Chibougamau has about 7,500 residents.
Chibougamau is located in the Nord-du-Québec administrative region, on the border of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean region.
This is the largest community in Jamésie, where the worst fires are currently spiraling out of control in North-du-Québec. The devastated area in this sector is huge.
The Sûreté du Québec will operate at regular intervals to secure Route 167.
Those who do not have transportation will need to go to the Chibougamau Arena where buses are available.
The meeting point is at Roberval Arena, 255 kilometers from Chibougamau.
Authorities are also asking citizens to leave a document at the door when leaving their homes.
“Take the minimum of your things with you. Let’s take turns,” the mayor finished.
Can you share information about this story with us?
Do you have a scoop that might be of interest to our readers?
Write to us or call us directly at 1-800-63SCOOP.