Mistissini Phase 3 evacuees invited to return

The community of Mistissini is now ready to welcome Phase 3 community members who were evacuated to Jonquière. 

Recent rainfall has helped reduce the intensity of fires #334 and #379 near the community, but air quality will continue to vary depending on the wind.

Vulnerable clients (Phase 1 and Phase 2)

Vulnerable members of the population (Phase 1 and Phase 2), who were evacuated last week will be able to return progressively as clinical services are restored at the Mistissini CMC.

• Phase 2: Planned for Thursday, June 29
• Phase 1: Planned for Friday, June 30

The return date of community members to Waswanipi and Oujé-Bougoumou is still being evaluated. 

Wiichihiituwin clients

• Hemodialysis Clients (inland) are to stay in Montreal or Chibougamau until further notice as they are considered Phase 1 clients and will continue getting their treatment in those service points.  
• Inlands Clients who have appointments in Val-d’Or & Montreal will be kept in our service points and returned according to the reintegration plan of their community.

Why was Mistissini evacuated?

On Friday, June 23, the Cree Nation of Mistissini, in consultation with the CBHSSJB and SOPFEU, ordered remaining community members to evacuate. Hot, dry weather was fueling fires #344, #379 and threatening the main evacuation route. Heavy smoke had reduced visibility and air quality was very poor.

Improvements to Public Security infrastructure

• Local emergency operations crews have created new and expanded firebreaks around the community and the main evacuation route to protect against the advance of current and future fires.  
• A secondary road has been improved to serve as an alternate route to exit the community in the event of emergency evacuation.