April report: significant increase in vegetation fires in Quebec

April report: significant increase in vegetation fires in Quebec

April was more active than usual in terms of vegetation fires in Quebec, according to the Société de protection des forêts contre le feu (SOPFEU). A total of 76 wildfires were recorded, about 30 more than the average over the past ten years.

These fires burned a total area of 43.8 hectares, compared to the usual average of 27.4 hectares. Notably, all fires reported since the beginning of the season were human-caused.

The increase is partly attributed to a prolonged dry period at the end of April, combined with strong winds. Nearly 91% of the fires occurred between April 21st and April 29th. The most affected regions include Outaouais, Laurentians, Lanaudière, and Estrie.

Burning yard waste remains a major cause, responsible for 28 fires. Other causes include cigarette butts and improperly controlled recreational fires.

SOPFEU reminds the public that spring is a high-risk period due to dry vegetation and urges caution to prevent avoidable fires, especially as May approaches, one of the most active wildfire months of the year.