The Eastern Townships region moved into Zone Red in Quebec, the highest alert zone for COVID-19, on Thursday.

Some citizens said that they foresaw the maximum alert coming for L’estrie (Estrie region).

Some community members blame moving into the red zone on out of town visitors and their inability to stay home. The government said it is trying to do what is best to try to flatten the curve.

At the maximum alert level, both public and private gatherings are prohibited. Restaurants can offer take-out only and gyms and theatres have to close. Schools are allowed to continue; however, students must wear a mask and only congregate with their bubble, and travel is not recommended outside of the region. The government stated they will revisit the restrictions on Nov. 23 for and consider re-opening.

“We will move into the red zone starting Thursday,” said Mayor Richard Burcombe in a press conference. “I am terribly disappointed. However, the number of cases is moving very little, if not at all, in Brome Lake specifically.”

Currently, the southern half of the province is in Zone Red.

“Whether or not we agree, let’s show civility,” said Burcombe.

“Our merchants have to once again be resilient and get through this storm," he added, speaking to the economy. "Please continue to buy locally to help these merchants survive."

Open or closed:

-Restaurants: Closed; take-out only

-Gyms: Closed

-Town hall: Appointment only

-Clinics: Phone appointments only

-CLSC: Appointment only

-Community Centre: Closed

-Movie theatre: Closed

-Court house: Open

-Boutiques/stores: Open

-Beauty salons/estheticians: Open