Like several farmers across Quebec this spring, Christine Aubin said she is "dancing and hoping for rain." It's not the first time the family's dairy farm in the Montérégie region is dealing with dry conditions, but Aubin said "this time is by far the worst." The province has seen 30 to 40 per cent less precipitation than usual this spring, according to Environment Canada, causing headaches for farmers, challenges for lake fishermen and creating perfect conditions for forest fires. Low water levelsWater levels are also low in many regions, including at La Vérendrye Wildlife Reserve, in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region. Sixteen forest fires are currently burning across Quebec, and the risk level varies from high in the Eastern Townships, to extreme in most regions.

Source: CBC News June 12, 2021 18:33 UTC