Provincial status report

In the coming days, the prevailing weather conditions in Quebec will allow SOPFEU to maintain the required Agency Preparedness Level at 1, on a scale from 1 to 5.

On Thursday and Friday, significant precipitation will fall across Quebec, except in the northwestern part of the province. Starting this weekend, unstable weather will bring smaller amounts of precipitation, alternating with clear periods.

In addition to the rainfall, relative humidity (RH) will remain high across the Intensive Protection Zone (IPZ). As a result, the Fire Danger will range from Low to Moderate in the IPZ through the beginning of next week.

In the Northern Zone, less precipitation is forecasted, particularly in the northwest. Relative humidity will also be lower in that area. The Fire Danger could still be High or even Very High on Thursday and Friday in the James Bay region. However, the wildfire risk should decrease with the arrival of the weekend.

SOPFEU nonetheless reminds the public that summer is a period particularly conducive to large wildfires. Moreover, vacation season draws many people into the forest, increasing the risk of human-caused fires. July is also favorable to thunderstorms and lightning, both of which can ignite new wildfires.

Support to Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Manitoba

The stable wildfire situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to provide support to other Canadian provinces currently experiencing increased wildfire activity:

• Ontario: Deployment of a Navajo PA-31 twin-engine Detection Aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

• Saskatchewan: Deployment of two Airtankers and their crews. SOPFEU has also mobilized 100 Type 1 wildland firefighters and three organizational representatives to support suppression operations.

• Manitoba: Deployment of an Air Attack Officer, a Birddog Aircraft and its pilot, as well as two Airtankers and their crews.

SOPFEU remains mobilized to protect communities, critical infrastructure, and Quebec’s forests, while demonstrating solidarity with its partners across Canada.

Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also supported California by deploying Airtankers. Equipment has also been provided to Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.

Over the next few days, weather conditions across Quebec will allow SOPFEU to maintain the required preparedness level at 1, on a scale of 1 to 5.

The weather will remain warm and humid. Rain and thunderstorms will move across most of the province by Thursday, alternating with periods of fair weather. As a result, the fire danger index is expected to decrease starting Tuesday. However, in some areas—particularly in the southern part of the province—the fire danger could quickly rise again if the rainfall is insufficient.

In the northern zone, skies will generally remain clear over the next few days, though conditions will not be particularly dry. The fire danger index there will generally range from Low to Moderate starting Tuesday.

SOPFEU nevertheless reminds the public that summer is a particularly high-risk period for large-scale wildfires. In addition, the vacation season leads many people to spend time in the forest, which increases the risk of fires. July is also favorable to thunderstorms and lightning, which can be ignition sources.

Smoke Plumes

There are currently over 550 active wildfires across Canada. This is causing large smoke plumes that are noticeable in Quebec. For any questions regarding the health impacts of wildfire smoke, visit the following site: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/advice-and-prevention/health-and-environment/prevent-effects-exposure-forest-fire-smoke

Support for Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Manitoba

The stable wildfire situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently facing increased fire activity.

• Ontario: Deployment of a Navajo PA-31 twin-engine aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

• Saskatchewan: Deployment of two airtankers and their crews. SOPFEU has also mobilized 100 wildfire firefighters and three organizational representatives to support ground operations.

• Manitoba: Deployment of one air attack officer, one Birddog Aircraft and its pilot, as well as two airtankers and their crews.

SOPFEU remains fully engaged in protecting Quebec’s communities, strategic infrastructure, and forests, while demonstrating solidarity with its partners across Canada.

Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided assistance to California, Alberta, and Manitoba by deploying airtankers and personnel. Equipment has also been supplied to Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.

Over the next few days, weather conditions across Quebec will allow SOPFEU to maintain its preparedness level at 1, on a scale of 1 to 5.

Showers and thunderstorms are expected starting Thursday in the south-central part of the province. By early next week, rainfall should spread across the entire Intensive Protection Zone. As a result, the fire danger index is expected to range from Low to Moderate in the southern regions. However, it could reach High to Extreme levels in Abitibi–Témiscamingue over the weekend.

In northern regions, a cold front is expected to arrive on Saturday through the Baie-James area, bringing thunderstorms. By Sunday, the rain should spread eastward into the Northern Zone. Until then, relative humidity will remain very low in the northeast and northwest of the province, maintaining a high level of dryness. Therefore, the more northern regions — including Nord-du-Québec, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, and Côte-Nord — will require close monitoring through the end of the weekend, with fire danger ranging from High to Extreme across most areas.

SOPFEU reminds the public that summer is a particularly high-risk period for large-scale wildfires. Additionally, the vacation season often leads to increased recreational activity in forested areas, which raises the risk of fire. July is also known for frequent thunderstorms and lightning strikes, both of which can spark wildfires.

Northern Zone

The situation remains relatively calm in the Northern Zone. However, a lightning-caused wildfire is currently under observation in the Baie-James region. The fire is located northeast of Chisasibi and covers an area of 4,669.8 hectares.

This fire does not pose a threat to any communities or strategic infrastructure and is therefore not being actively fought by SOPFEU. Crews are conducting regular aerial patrols to monitor the fire’s progress and ensure it remains non-threatening.

It is important to note that in the northern zone, SOPFEU only intervenes when fires pose a threat to communities or strategic infrastructure, in accordance with a protection plan established with the Gouvernement du Québec, Hydro-Québec, and Indigenous Services Canada.

Support to Saskatchewan and Ontario

The stable situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently facing more intense wildfire activity.

Ontario: Deployment of a twin-engine Navajo PA-31 aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

Saskatchewan: Deployment of two airtankers and their crews, as well as a major fire management team composed of 11 specialists. SOPFEU has also mobilized 100 wildland firefighters and three agency representatives to assist Saskatchewan.

SOPFEU remains fully engaged in protecting Quebec’s communities, strategic infrastructure, and forests while demonstrating solidarity with its partners across the country.

Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided assistance to California, Alberta, and Manitoba by deploying airtankers and personnel. Equipment has also been loaned to Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.

Current weather conditions in Quebec allow SOPFEU to maintain a preparedness level of 1 on a scale of 1 to 5.

At the beginning of the week, southern regions of the province will receive some rainfall. However, starting Tuesday afternoon, fair weather is expected to settle across the entire province. A few showers and thunderstorms may occur, but they are not expected to bring significant amounts of rain. This will lead to a gradual drying of forest fuels by the end of the week. The phenomenon will be especially noticeable in the northern portion of the intensive protection zone and in the northern zone. As a result, the fire danger index is expected to rise, ranging from High to Very High in areas such as Nord-du-Québec, Côte-Nord, and the northern part of Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean.

SOPFEU reminds the public that summer is a particularly high-risk period for large-scale wildfires. Moreover, vacations often involve outdoor activities in forested areas, increasing the risk of human-caused fires. July is also a peak period for thunderstorms and lightning strikes.

Northern Zone

The situation remains calm in the northern zone. However, a lightning-caused wildfire is under observation in the Baie-James region. Located northeast of Chisasibi, the fire currently covers an area of 5,010 hectares.

This fire does not pose a threat to any community or strategic infrastructure and is therefore not being actively suppressed by SOPFEU. Teams are conducting regular aerial surveillance to monitor its progress and ensure it does not become a threat.

It is worth noting that in the northern zone, SOPFEU only responds to fires that threaten communities or strategic infrastructure, in accordance with a territorial protection plan established with the Government of Quebec, Hydro-Québec, and Indigenous Services Canada.

Support to Saskatchewan and Ontario

The stable situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently facing a higher number of wildfires.

Ontario: Deployment of a twin-engine Navajo PA31 aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

Saskatchewan: Deployment of two air tankers and their crews, as well as a major incident management team made up of 11 specialists. SOPFEU has also mobilized 100 wildland firefighters and three agency representatives to support Saskatchewan.

SOPFEU remains fully committed to protecting Quebec’s communities, strategic infrastructure, and forests, while also demonstrating solidarity with its partners across the country.

Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided assistance to California, Alberta, and Manitoba by deploying air tankers and personnel. Equipment has also been loaned to Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.

Favourable Weather Conditions Keep SOPFEU at Preparedness Level 1

Weather conditions in Québec are allowing SOPFEU to maintain the required preparedness level at 1 on a scale of 1 to 5.

It is worth noting that June was very calm for SOPFEU teams. In fact, three times fewer fires than usual occurred within the intensive protection zone last month. This low number of wildfires can be partly explained by increased public vigilance in preventing human-caused fires and by frequent rainfall episodes across the province in recent weeks. Some sunny and drier periods were observed but did not result in any significant wildfire outbreaks.

In the coming days, various regions of Québec will continue to see alternating rain, thunderstorms, and sunny spells. This will help keep the fire danger rating at Low to Moderate for most regions. However, on Saturday, the more northern parts of Côte-Nord, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean and Nord-du-Québec will see the fire danger index rise to High and Very High. There is therefore a risk of lightning-caused fires in these areas, with a moderate potential for spread.

Despite the current weather conditions in Québec, SOPFEU reminds the public that summer is a period particularly prone to large wildfires. In addition, vacation time often means more activities in the forest, which increases the fire risk. July is also a peak month for thunderstorms and lightning.

Northern Zone

The situation remains relatively calm in the northern zone. However, two lightning-caused fires are under observation in the James Bay region. One of them, located northeast of Chisasibi, covers an area of 5,388.7 hectares.

These fires do not threaten any communities or critical infrastructure and therefore are not being actively suppressed by SOPFEU. Crews are conducting regular flyovers to monitor their progression and ensure they do not pose a threat.

It is worth recalling that in the northern zone, SOPFEU only fights fires that threaten communities or strategic infrastructure, as part of a territorial protection plan agreed upon with the Québec government, Hydro-Québec and Indigenous Services Canada.

Support to Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Manitoba

Québec’s stable situation allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently facing larger numbers of wildfires.

Ontario: Deployment of a twin-engine Navajo PA31 aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

Manitoba: 60 wildfire firefighters have been deployed to support ongoing operations, accompanied by five section chiefs and two SOPFEU representatives. This mission has been strengthened with the participation of 40 French wildfire firefighters provided by SOPFEU’s partner, the Unité Internationale de Sapeurs Forestiers (UISF). These teams are expected to return on July 6.

Saskatchewan: Deployment of two airtankers and their crews, as well as a major incident management team composed of 11 specialists. SOPFEU is preparing to mobilize an additional 100 wildfire firefighters to support Saskatchewan.

SOPFEU remains fully mobilized to protect communities, critical infrastructure, and Québec’s forests, while showing solidarity with its partners across the country. Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided assistance to California and Alberta by deploying airtankers and personnel. Equipment has also been lent to Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Yukon.

The rain received over the past few days across nearly all regions of Quebec has allowed SOPFEU to lower the required preparedness level to 1 on a scale of 1 to 5.

Quebec is expected to receive more rain by Thursday, especially starting Tuesday. As a result, the fire danger level should remain Low to Moderate across the entire territory over the next few days. However, thunderstorms and lightning are also expected. In some areas that have received less precipitation in recent days, this could lead to new fire outbreaks. It’s also worth noting that the northwest part of the province may begin to dry out again toward the end of the week.

Despite the current weather conditions in Quebec, SOPFEU reminds the public that summer is a time when large wildfires are more likely to occur. In addition, vacation season often means more outdoor activities in forested areas, which increases the risk of fire. July, in particular, is known for thunderstorms and lightning strikes.

Northern Zone

The situation remains relatively calm in the northern zone. However, a lightning-caused fire is being monitored northeast of Chisasibi. This fire, which covers 5,388.7 hectares, does not threaten any communities or critical infrastructure, and therefore is not being actively suppressed by SOPFEU. Crews regularly fly over the fire to monitor its progression and ensure it does not pose a threat.

As a reminder, in the northern zone, SOPFEU only fights fires that threaten communities or critical infrastructure, as outlined in a territory protection plan agreed upon with the Government of Quebec, Hydro-Québec and Indigenous Services Canada.

Support for Saskatchewan, Ontario and Manitoba

The stable situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently facing more active fire situations.

Ontario: Deployment of a Navajo PA31 twin-engine aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

Manitoba: Deployment of 60 wildland firefighters to support ongoing operations, accompanied by 5 section chiefs and 2 SOPFEU representatives. This mission is strengthened by the participation of 40 French wildland firefighters provided by SOPFEU’s partner, the Unité Internationale de sapeurs forestiers.

Saskatchewan: Deployment of a major incident management team consisting of 11 specialists.

SOPFEU remains fully mobilized to protect Quebec’s communities, critical infrastructure and forests, while standing in solidarity with partners across the country. Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also assisted California and Alberta by deploying airtankers and personnel. Equipment has also been lent to Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Yukon.

Summer Has Now Begun

At this time of year, surface fires (dead leaves, brush, etc.) are generally less frequent than in spring, as trees and shrubs are now fully leafed out and vegetation has reached maturity. However, fires that may occur are likely to burn deeper into the ground and be more intense. Furthermore, toward the end of June and throughout July, lightning becomes more frequent, which can cause wildfires.

Despite recent rainfall, northern parts of the province are drying out, and fire danger indices are rising north of the 49th parallel. As a result, SOPFEU has raised its preparedness level to 2 on a scale of 1 to 5.

Over the coming days, the southern part of the province is expected to experience significant rainfall, while northern regions will continue to dry out. In Côte-Nord, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, and Nord-du-Québec, very low relative humidity will drive fire danger indices to High or Extreme levels. This situation is expected to persist until next Sunday. SOPFEU therefore urges the public to exercise increased caution in the coming days.

SOPFEU also reminds the public that summer is a particularly critical period for large-scale wildfires. Long weekends and summer vacations are often times when people head into forested areas, which increases the risk of fires.

Northern Zone

The situation remains relatively calm in the northern zone. However, a lightning-caused fire is being monitored northeast of Chisasibi. This fire, measuring 3,853.4 hectares, does not currently threaten any communities or key infrastructure. As such, SOPFEU is not actively fighting it. Aerial teams are monitoring the fire regularly to track its progress and ensure it does not pose a threat.

It is important to note that in the northern zone, SOPFEU only intervenes in fires that threaten communities or strategic infrastructure, as per a protection plan established with the Government of Québec, Hydro-Québec, and Indigenous Services Canada.

Support to Ontario and Manitoba

The stable wildfire situation in Québec allows SOPFEU to support Canadian provinces currently facing a higher number of wildfires.

Ontario: Deployment of two CL-415 water bombers, along with a Navajo PA31 twin-engine aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system and their respective crews.

Manitoba: Deployment of 60 wildland firefighters, supported by 5 section chiefs and 2 SOPFEU representatives. This mission is enhanced by the participation of 40 French wildland firefighters provided by SOPFEU’s partner, the Unité Internationale de sapeurs forestiers.

SOPFEU remains fully mobilized to protect Québec’s communities, strategic infrastructure, and forests, while also showing solidarity with its partners across the country. Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided assistance to California, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.

Summer Has Officially Begun

At this time of year, surface fires (such as burning leaves, dry grass, and brush) are generally less common than in the spring, as foliage has fully developed and vegetation has reached peak maturity. However, any wildfires that do occur may burn deeper into the ground and be more intense. Furthermore, lightning tends to be more frequent in late June and July, increasing the risk of wildfire ignition.

Due to the regular rainfall across most of Quebec in recent days, SOPFEU’s current preparedness level is at 1 on a scale of 1 to 5.

In the coming days, fair weather is expected to settle in, with temperatures set to rise—many regions will see highs exceeding 30°C. While little precipitation is forecast between now and Thursday, the relatively high humidity levels will help keep the fire danger ratings mostly Low to Moderate across the province. However, parts of southern Quebec—specifically the Estrie, Montérégie, Outaouais, Laurentides, and Lanaudière regions—may see fire danger levels reach High.

SOPFEU reminds the public that summer is a particularly high-risk season for large wildfires. National holiday celebrations such as Quebec’s Fête nationale and Canada Day often involve outdoor and forest-based activities, which further increases the risk of fire.

Northern Zone

Conditions in Quebec’s northern zone are also relatively calm. However, one lightning-caused fire is being monitored northeast of Chisasibi. Covering an area of 3,853.4 hectares, the fire poses no threat to nearby communities or key infrastructure, and as such, is not being actively suppressed by SOPFEU. Aerial crews are monitoring the fire regularly to track its progression and ensure it does not become a threat.

It is important to note that in Quebec’s northern zone, SOPFEU only suppresses fires that pose a risk to communities or critical infrastructure. This approach is part of a territory protection plan agreed upon with the Government of Quebec, Hydro-Québec, and Indigenous Services Canada.

Support for Ontario and Manitoba

Thanks to the stable wildfire situation in Quebec, SOPFEU is able to provide assistance to other Canadian provinces currently facing a higher number of fires.

• Ontario: Deployment of two CL-415 airtankers and one Navajo PA31 twin-engine aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with full crews.

• Manitoba: Deployment of 60 wildland firefighters, supported by 5 section chiefs and 2 SOPFEU representatives. This mission is further strengthened by 40 French wildland firefighters provided by one of SOPFEU’s partners, the Unité Internationale de sapeurs forestiers.

SOPFEU remains fully engaged in protecting Quebec’s communities, critical infrastructure, and forests, while also showing solidarity with its partners across Canada. Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided support to California, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.

So far, spring 2025 has been quiet for SOPFEU teams. Thanks to favourable weather conditions and the population’s vigilance regarding fire prevention, the number of human-caused wildfires has been more than twice as low as the average for recent years.

Following recent rainfall over most of the province, SOPFEU's preparedness level has been lowered to 1 on a scale of 1 to 5.

In the coming days, the southern and eastern parts of the province are expected to receive additional rain, which should help keep the fire danger index between Low and Moderate in those areas. However, northwestern regions will receive significantly less precipitation by early next week, leading to drying conditions—particularly in Abitibi-Témiscamingue and Nord-du-Québec. The northern Baie-James area and the Chisasibi region will be especially vulnerable heading into next week.

Summer-like conditions are now present across all regions of Québec. At this stage, surface fires (dead leaves, brush, etc.) tend to occur less frequently than in spring, as trees and shrubs are now in full leaf and vegetation has reached maturity. However, any wildfires that do occur may burn deeper into the ground and be more intense.

SOPFEU reminds the public that great caution is required as summer approaches—a period particularly conducive to the outbreak of large forest fires. The celebrations surrounding National Indigenous Peoples Day, Québec’s Fête nationale, and Canada Day also represent occasions for activities in or near the forest, which come with certain risks.

Support to Ontario and Manitoba

The stable situation in Québec allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently experiencing more wildfire activity.

• Ontario: Deployment of two CL-415 water bombers and one Navajo PA31 twin-engine aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with their crews.
  

• Manitoba: Deployment of 60 wildland firefighters to support ongoing operations, along with 5 section chiefs and 2 SOPFEU representatives. This mission is strengthened by the participation of 40 French wildland firefighters provided by SOPFEU’s partner, the Unité Internationale de sapeurs forestiers.

SOPFEU remains mobilized to protect communities, strategic infrastructure, and Québec’s forests while also demonstrating solidarity with partners across the country. Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided support to California, Saskatchewan, and Alberta.

Spring 2025 has been relatively calm so far for SOPFEU crews. Thanks to favourable weather conditions and the public's vigilance when it comes to fire prevention, the number of human-caused fires has been more than twice as low as the average for recent years. With the warm weather over the past weekend and rising fire danger levels across the province of Quebec, a Preparedness Level 2 (on a scale from 1 to 5) is now required.

Rainfall is expected to begin on Tuesday in the northeastern part of the province. On Wednesday and Thursday, southern regions are also forecasted to receive rain, possibly accompanied by lightning. Fire danger levels remain High to Extreme early in the week but are expected to decrease starting Wednesday across most of the province.

Summer-like conditions now prevail across all regions of Quebec. At this stage, surface fires (such as those involving dead leaves or brush) are generally less frequent than in spring, as foliage has fully emerged and vegetation has reached maturity. However, any fires that do break out are more likely to burn deeper into the ground and be more intense.

SOPFEU reminds the public to remain highly cautious as we head into summer—a season particularly conducive to large-scale wildfires.

Support to Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta

The stable situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support Canadian provinces currently facing a higher number of wildfires:

• Ontario: Deployment of two additional CL-415 air tankers and a twin-engine Navajo PA31 aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

• Alberta: Deployment of a team of 11 specialists in major wildfire management.

• Manitoba: Deployment of 60 wildland firefighters to support ongoing operations.

SOPFEU remains fully engaged in protecting Quebec’s communities, critical infrastructure, and forests, while also showing solidarity with its partners across the country. Since the beginning of 2025, SOPFEU has also provided assistance to both California and Saskatchewan.

Spring 2025 has so far been quiet for SOPFEU crews. Thanks to favourable weather conditions and the public’s vigilance in fire prevention, the number of human-caused fires has been more than twice as low as the average for recent years. This situation allows SOPFEU to maintain a preparedness level of 1 on a scale of 1 to 5.

Recent rainfall has helped keep the fire danger index low to moderate across Quebec. However, with sunny weather expected to return on Saturday, the index is forecast to rise starting Sunday and into early next week.

Summer conditions are settling in across all regions of Quebec. At this stage, surface fires (dead leaves, dry grasses, etc.) are generally less frequent than in the spring, since greenery and leaf-out of trees and shrubs are complete and vegetation has reached full maturity. However, any fires that may occur are more likely to burn deeper into the ground and be more intense.

SOPFEU reminds the public that continued caution is essential as summer approaches—a season that is particularly conducive to the outbreak of large forest fires.

Support for Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta

Quebec’s stable fire situation allows SOPFEU to support other Canadian provinces currently facing more significant fire activity.

• Saskatchewan: Deployment of two CL-415 airtankers and their crews.

• Ontario: Deployment of two additional CL-415 airtankers and a twin-engine Navajo PA31 aircraft equipped with the VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew.

• Alberta: Deployment of a team of 11 major fire management specialists.

• Manitoba: Deployment of 60 wildland firefighters to support ongoing operations.

SOPFEU remains fully engaged in protecting Quebec’s communities, strategic infrastructure, and forests, while also showing solidarity with its partners across the country.

After several days of fine weather that pushed fire danger higher across the territory, a cold front will move from west to east starting Tuesday. This should bring enough rain by Thursday to lower fire danger across the entire province.

SOPFEU is nonetheless urging the public to exercise extra caution as we approach the summer season, which is particularly conducive to the outbreak of large-scale forest fires.

Assistance to Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta

It should be noted that the situation prevailing in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support its partners in other Canadian provinces.

To this end, two CL-415s and their crews are deployed in Saskatchewan.

Two CL-415s and their crews, as well as a twin-engine Navajo PA31 aircraft equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system and its crew, are also deployed in Ontario.

A team of 11 major fire management specialists has been deployed in Alberta.

Finally, 60 forest firefighters are on the ground lending a hand to their colleagues in Manitoba.

A cold front over the St. Lawrence Valley will bring rain and thunderstorms and will move toward the eastern part of the province this weekend. The expected rainfall will lower the fire danger. However, the western part of the province may remain dry, which could lead to a significant increase in fire danger on Sunday. The regions most at risk include Mauricie, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and parts of Northern Québec.

SOPFEU is urging the public to exercise extra caution as the summer season approaches, a period particularly conducive to the outbreak of large wildfires.

Support to Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta

Current conditions in Québec allow SOPFEU to support its partners in other Canadian provinces.

To this end, two CL-415 aircraft and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan.

Two additional CL-415s and their crews, along with a Navajo PA31 twin-engine aircraft equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system and its crew, have been deployed to Ontario.

An 11-member Incident Management Team specializing in large fire operations has been deployed to Alberta.

Lastly, 60 wildland firefighters are currently on the ground assisting their counterparts in Manitoba.

Good weather is settling in across much of the province. This will increase the risk of wildfires at the beginning of the week, especially in the western part of the province. Rainfall expected around Thursday should help reduce the fire danger.

SOPFEU is urging the public to be extra cautious as summer approaches, a season that is particularly favourable to the outbreak of large-scale wildfires.

Support to Saskatchewan, Ontario, Manitoba, and Alberta

It’s worth noting that the current situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to assist its partners in other Canadian provinces.

To that end, two CL-415 aircraft and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan.

Two CL-415 aircraft and their crews, along with a twin-engine Navajo PA31 equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system and its crew, have also been deployed to Ontario.

A team of 11 specialists in major wildfire management has been deployed to Alberta.

Finally, 60 wildland firefighters are currently on the ground providing support to their colleagues in Alberta.

After a mostly sunny week during which fire danger indices reached Extreme levels in several regions, upcoming periods of rain are expected to bring those indices down by the beginning of the week of June 2.

In collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security, the preventive measures that were in place (open fire ban and restrictions on forest work) have therefore been lifted as of 8:00 p.m. on May 30.

However, the northwestern regions of the province may receive less precipitation, and fire danger indices there may continue to fluctuate between High and Extreme, particularly in the James Bay area.

Support to Saskatchewan and Ontario

It is worth noting that the current situation in Quebec allows SOPFEU to support its partners in other Canadian provinces.

To that end, two CL-415 aircraft and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan.

Two CL-415 aircraft and their crews, along with a twin-engine Navajo PA31 equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system and its crew, have also been deployed to Ontario.

At the beginning of the week, due to prevailing weather conditions, SOPFEU issued a “call for caution” to residents in northern regions of the province. The regions particularly affected include Nord-du-Québec, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Côte-Nord, Mauricie, Bas-Saint-Laurent, and Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine.

When SOPFEU issues a “call for caution,” it means that weather indices forecast not only favourable conditions for wildfire outbreaks, but also for high-intensity fires that can spread rapidly. SOPFEU is monitoring the situation very closely, as it anticipates the outbreak of several new fires in the coming days.

Preventive Measures

SOPFEU has suspended the issuance of industrial burning permits in high-risk areas. The fire protection agency is encouraging municipalities to do the same for domestic burning.

An open fire ban has also been issued by the Ministry of Public Security, in collaboration with SOPFEU. This ban comes into effect on May 28 at 8:00 a.m., and applies to the regions of Nord-du-Québec, Côte-Nord, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine, and the northern parts of Mauricie, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and Bas-Saint-Laurent.

Additionally, SOPFEU has recommended restricting forestry operations starting May 28 in the same areas where the open fire ban is in effect.

Support to Saskatchewan and Ontario

Despite the current situation in Quebec, SOPFEU is still able to support its partners in other Canadian provinces.

To that end, two CL-415 aircraft and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan.

Another two CL-415s, along with a twin-engine Navajo PA31 equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system and its crew, have also been deployed to Ontario.

At the beginning of the week, due to prevailing weather conditions, SOPFEU issued a "call for caution" to residents in regions located in the northern part of the province. The regions most notably affected are Nord-du-Québec, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, and Côte-Nord.

When SOPFEU issues a "call for caution," it means that weather indices indicate conditions not only favourable to the outbreak of wildfires, but also to high-intensity fires that can spread quickly. SOPFEU is closely monitoring the situation, as it expects several new fires to break out over the coming days.

Preventive Measures

SOPFEU has suspended the issuance of industrial burning permits in high-risk areas. The fire protection agency is also encouraging municipalities to suspend domestic burning permits.

Additional preventive measures may be implemented in the coming hours in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Security.

Assistance to Saskatchewan and Ontario

It is worth noting that the current situation in Quebec still allows SOPFEU to support its partners in other Canadian provinces.

To that end, two CL-415 aircraft and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan.

Two CL-415 aircraft and their crews, along with a twin-engine Navajo PA31 equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system and its crew, have also been deployed to Ontario.

The rain received over the past few days has significantly reduced the fire danger level. By Monday (May 26), only a few low-intensity surface fires are expected across the region. In the northern zone, the James Bay coast will need to be monitored over the coming days.

Leaf-out and greening are now well underway in many areas located in southern Quebec (south of the 48th parallel), where summer-like conditions are now present. In these regions, surface fires (dead leaves, brush, etc.) are already less common. However, any fires that do occur are more likely to burn deeper into the ground and exhibit greater intensity.

Spring conditions remain in effect across other parts of Quebec, except in northeastern regions of the province where snow cover is still present in the forest. In spring conditions, it’s important to stay vigilant as soon as the weather improves. Dead vegetation (brush, fallen leaves, etc.) tends to dry out very quickly with just a bit of sun and wind, becoming highly flammable.

It’s worth remembering that May is particularly prone to vegetation fires. Contrary to popular belief, May is the month when the highest number of wildfires occur in Quebec.

Support to Saskatchewan and Ontario

Given the current situation in Quebec, SOPFEU is able to provide assistance to its counterparts in other Canadian provinces. To this end, two CL-415 aircraft and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan. Additionally, a twin-engine Navajo PA31 aircraft equipped with a VeriMap infrared detection system, along with its crew, has been deployed to Ontario.

Spring conditions are now well established across all administrative regions of Québec, except for the northern parts of Nord-du-Québec, Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, and Côte-Nord.

It’s important to remember that May is a particularly high-risk month for the outbreak of vegetation fires. Contrary to popular belief, the highest number of wildfires in Québec typically occurs during May.

In the spring, as soon as the nice weather arrives, we must remain vigilant. Dead vegetation—such as brush and fallen leaves—tends to dry out quickly with a bit of sun and wind, becoming highly flammable.

Support to Saskatchewan and Ontario

Given the current situation in Québec, SOPFEU is in a position to support its partners in other Canadian provinces. Two CL-415 water bombers and their crews have been deployed to Saskatchewan. Two additional CL-415s and their crews are currently in Ontario.

With the snow cover having melted in parts of the territory along the coast, spring conditions favourable to wildfires are now present. As a result, SOPFEU has begun issuing the fire danger rating for this area. However, snow cover remains prevalent in forested areas across most of the region.

In spring, as soon as the weather starts to improve, vigilance is key. Dead vegetation (such as dry grass, dead leaves, etc.) tends to dry out very quickly with just a bit of sunshine and wind. These materials then become highly flammable.

Wildfire season is officially underway in Quebec. Although April was quieter than usual, the beginning of May is proving to be somewhat busier for SOPFEU teams and local fire departments.

SOPFEU gradually began issuing the fire danger rating as of April 3, 2025, in regions where the snow cover has disappeared. Currently, SOPFEU is publishing the fire danger index for the following regions:

• Estrie

• Montérégie

• Centre-du-Québec

• Montréal

• Laval

• Outaouais

• Laurentides

• Lanaudière

• Chaudière-Appalaches

As well as parts of the following regions:

• Mauricie

• Capitale-Nationale

• Bas-Saint-Laurent

• Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean

• Abitibi–Témiscamingue

• Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine

• Côte-Nord

The rest of Quebec is still experiencing winter conditions, with substantial snow cover remaining in forested areas. In these northern regions, the wildfire risk is currently non-existent.

It’s important to remember that May is especially prone to the outbreak of vegetation fires. Contrary to popular belief, the greatest number of wildfires in Quebec occurs in May.

Indeed, in spring, as soon as the weather improves, it's important to stay alert. Dead vegetation (like brush, dry leaves, etc.) tends to dry out very quickly with even a bit of sun and wind, becoming highly flammable.

Although slightly later than usual, the wildfire season has officially begun, with over ten fires reported since the start of spring. The tenth fire is, in fact, a benchmark used by SOPFEU to mark the true beginning of wildfire season in Quebec.

The first fire of the season occurred in the municipality of Sutton, in the Estrie region, on April 15. The tenth fire was fought on April 24 in the municipality of Racine, also located in Estrie.

SOPFEU began gradually publishing the fire danger index on April 3, 2025, in regions where the snow cover has disappeared. Currently, the fire danger index is being published for the following regions:

• Estrie

• Montérégie

• Centre-du-Québec

• Montréal

• Laval

• Chaudière-Appalaches

As well as for parts of the following regions:

• Outaouais

• Laurentides

• Lanaudière

• Mauricie

• Capitale-Nationale

• Bas-Saint-Laurent

• Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean

• Abitibi–Témiscamingue

The rest of Quebec is still experiencing winter conditions, with snow still covering the forests. In these more northern regions, the risk of wildfires is currently non-existent.

In the spring, as soon as the nice weather sets in, we must stay alert. Dead vegetation (brush, dry leaves, etc.) tends to dry out very quickly with a bit of sunshine and wind. It then becomes highly flammable.

SOPFEU began issuing the fire danger index on April 3, 2025, in southern regions where the snow cover had fully disappeared, namely Estrie, Montérégie, and Centre-du-Québec.

Since then, SOPFEU’s team of meteorologists has been monitoring the daily snowmelt in order to expand the area covered by the fire danger index. The regions of Montréal, Laval, and Chaudière-Appalaches have since been added, along with parts of Outaouais, Laurentides, Lanaudière, Mauricie, Capitale-Nationale, and Bas-Saint-Laurent.

The rest of the province is still experiencing winter conditions, with snow still present in forested areas, which means the risk of wildfires remains non-existent.

The first wildfire of the season occurred in the municipality of Sutton, in the Estrie region, on April 15. This is considered relatively late compared to the seasonal average.

In spring, as soon as the nice weather returns, it’s important to stay alert. Dead vegetation—such as dry grass, brush, and dead leaves—can dry out very quickly with just a bit of sun and wind, becoming highly flammable.

SOPFEU began publishing the Fire Danger Index on April 3, 2025, in the southern regions of the province—specifically where the snow cover has completely melted. This includes Estrie, Montérégie, and Centre-du-Québec. As soon as warm weather sets in, we need to stay vigilant. In spring, dead vegetation (such as dry grass and dead leaves) tends to dry out very quickly with just a bit of sunshine and wind, making it highly flammable.

The rest of Quebec is still experiencing winter conditions, with snow still present in the forested areas. As a result, the risk of wildfires in those regions is currently non-existent.

SOPFEU began broadcasting the Fire Danger Index on April 3, 2025, in the southern regions where the snow cover has completely disappeared. These regions include Estrie, Montérégie, and Centre-du-Québec. In these areas, the fire risk remains low for now. However, as soon as the warm weather arrives, vigilance will be required. In the spring, dead vegetation (brush, dead leaves, etc.) tends to dry out very quickly with a bit of sun and wind, making it highly flammable.

The rest of Quebec remains under winter conditions, with snow still covering the forests. As a result, the wildfire risk is non-existent in these areas.

Since the start of the wildfire protection season, no fires have been reported in Quebec.