The approximately 2,000 citizens were evacuated on the evening of June 2nd when forest fires threatened the city.
Julie Paquin has been on a rollercoaster ride of emotions for the past few days.
The return was not without worries. We would have liked to come back under different conditions. We come back with a fire that is very active, that is even bigger, that is close to the road, that is perhaps less threatening to the city, but it is still there. We would have wished for rain, but we haven’t had any and expect it in a week’s time
she confided to the show in an interview It’s never the same.
Ms Paquin had to go home as she works at the health center. On Monday morning work started for her again.
After 16 days away from home, we can’t wait to see the state of our city and home. I don’t think we would have delayed our return. We would have come back
She says.
At the time of the evacuation, Julie Paquin first went to a friend who lives in Abitibi. Her spouse, who works at the Nordic Kraft plant, had to go to work regularly to conduct observations. After a week, the couple moved to the Laurentians.
” We took the opportunity to see our family and friends. Take in a little more, try to feel [plus] on vacation as a disaster victim. »
She admits that media coverage made it almost impossible to forget what was happening in her home. Julie Paquin admits fear was high at the time of the evacuation.
We are very, very concerned. Especially when we found out that there was a fire not only in the south but also in the north, we were, shall we say, scared. We’re not just afraid for our homes. It’s a life, when the fire reaches the community, we’re out of jobs, we’re out of homes, we’re out of town, friends scatter
She explains.
Julie Paquin and her spouse have no idea about the state of their fishing camp. They have little hope that he was spared from the flames.
” At some point we have no choice but to let go and trust the responsible authorities. And telling themselves that they are taking action to keep the community safe. »
A deserted city
The absence of life for 16 days is felt in the city of North-du-Québec. The grass is long and yellow. There are fire camps all over the city. The presence of firefighters and the Sûreté du Québec is omnipresent. The smell of smoke is strong and the ash is clearly visible.
It reminds us that we can be evacuated at any time and that the fire is near.
concludes Julie Paquin.
Evacuees from Lebel-sur-Quévillon were able to return to their homes on Sunday. However, based on the weather forecast for the next few days, they must be ready to evacuate again.
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