Two forest fires reported near Kangiqsualujjuaq

Quebec police are warning people in Kangiqsualujjuaq of two fires burning near the community.

They are two of several fires still raging all over the Cree territory of Eeyou Istchee and northern Quebec.

Quebec’s society for protection of forest from fires — also known as SOPFEU — reported the first fire on June 17 near Qikirtalik Lake, about six kilometres north of Kangiqsualujjuaq.

That fire was reported to have a recreational cause and has an estimated size of less than a square kilometre.

A second fire was reported June 27, believed to be caused by lightning. It’s located about 25 kilometres from town, across the George River. That fire has now spread to more than 2.1 square kilometres.

Police say situations regarding forest fires can change rapidly, and to trust specialists’ advice.

So far, police have had to make nine rescues by helicopter in sectors hit by forest fires.