Canada: Warnings for poor air quality due to smoke from wildfires continue across western regions as of July 23 /update 1

Authorities are maintaining warnings and advisories concerning poor air quality due to wildfire smoke across parts of western Canada as of July 23. Hundreds of fires are burning across part of the region, with southern British Columbia and northern Alberta the worst affected areas. Smoke from the fires is causing a deterioration in air quality and visibility across the region.

As of early July 23, Environment Canada has issued red air quality advisories (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across most of Alberta, much of Saskatchewan, and parts of central and southern Northwest Territories. Special air quality statements have been issued across much of eastern British Colombia and parts of central Northwest Territories, eastern Saskatchewan, and southeastern Yukon. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) has been observed at the highest possible level of 10+ in parts of the affected region July 22-early July 23 and is forecast to continue in some areas through at least July 24. A weather front moving west to east over the region over the coming days may help to gradually alleviate pollution levels. Additional advisories may be issued and modified as wildfire and meteorological conditions change over the coming days.

In all areas under air quality advisories, vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, people suffering from asthma or other lung diseases, and people with heart disease, are at particular risk of negative health consequences from the smoke. Officials have warned that during periods of particularly heavy smoke, everyone is at risk regardless of health or age. People in affected areas are advised to limit outdoor activities and keep doors and windows closed where possible.

The low air quality could cause disruptions at airports in the affected region due to reduced visibility. While most business activities continue as normal, disruptions are possible if conditions deteriorate.