Canada: Warnings for poor air quality due to smoke from wildfires issued across western regions as of July 21

Authorities have issued warnings and advisories concerning poor air quality due to wildfire smoke across parts of western Canada as of July 21. Multiple fires are burning across southern British Columbia and northern Alberta. Smoke from the fires is causing a deterioration in air quality and visibility across the affected area.

As of early July 21, Environment Canada has issued red air quality advisories across parts of northern Alberta, central, eastern, and northwestern Saskatchewan, and central and southern Northwest Territories. Special air quality statements have been issued across eastern and southeastern British Colombia, southern Alberta, southeastern Saskatchewan, and western Manitoba. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) has been observed at the highest possible level of 10+ in some of the affected parts of Alberta and Northwest Territories and is forecast to remain at this level through at least July 22. 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.