Air quality warning remains in effect as wildfire smoke lingers over Calgary
Smoke from northern Saskatchewan wildfires has pushed air quality to moderate-risk levels. Conditions are expected to improve Wednesday.
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The Calgary area remains under an air quality warning after wildfire smoke rolled in from northern Saskatchewan, causing poor air quality across parts of Alberta.
On Tuesday afternoon, risk levels sat at 6 on the air quality scale, which falls within the moderate-risk range — slightly better than the forecast high of 8, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor.
"We're a little bit better than what the forecast is suggesting, but we're definitely seeing an increase in the amount of smoke out there, and it should be decreasing in its intensity through the evening tonight," Proctor said. Conditions are expected to improve throughout the day Wednesday as low pressure systems drift eastward.
Smoke movement depends on wind patterns and atmospheric stability. The low pressure system responsible for the weekend's heavy rainfall has been pushing slowly eastward, bringing a return flow of smoke from fires in northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba south and west into central Alberta and the foothills.
Those most likely to be impacted — seniors, infants and young children, pregnant people, those with existing illness or chronic health conditions, and anyone working outdoors — are encouraged to avoid strenuous activities outdoors where possible and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. Mild symptoms include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More severe symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. Environment Canada recommends keeping windows closed, using a high-quality air filter, and wearing a respirator mask if spending time outdoors is necessary.
