Canada: Warnings for poor air quality due to smoke from wildfires ongoing across western and central regions as of Aug. 15

Authorities are maintaining warnings and advisories concerning poor air quality due to wildfire smoke across parts of western and central Canada as of Aug. 15. Hundreds of fires are burning across western regions and the smoke from the fires is causing a deterioration in air quality and visibility across the region.

As of early Aug. 14, Environment Canada has issued red air quality advisories (the highest level on a three-tier scale) across Alberta, most of Saskatchewan, and parts of northern and western Manitoba, southwestern Northwest Territories, and northwestern Quebec. Special air quality statements have been issued across much of the rest of the affected area. The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) has been observed at the highest possible level of 10+ in parts of Alberta and Saskatchewan and is forecast to continue at this level in parts of the affected area through at least Aug. 16. Additional advisories may be issued and modified as wildfire and meteorological conditions change over the coming days. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour; however, due to the ongoing wildfire situation, which will likely take some time to significantly improve, periods of poor air quality are expected to continue across parts of the region over the coming days and weeks.

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.