A small region of the province of Quebec, a few hours north of the Ottawa region. Most important cities are Rouyn-Noranda (pop: 29 800) and Val-d'Or (pop: 24 530). The climate there is less then pleasant during the winter: a lot of snow, and cold temperatures (reaching less then -40(c) on the very cold days). Summer is nice and warm, but only lasts a few months. The economy of the region relies heavily on the mining and wood industries.