Calgary under air quality advisory as wildfire smoke arrives
Environment Canada warns smoke from northern Saskatchewan will linger for days, with some neighborhoods already seeing hazardous particulate levels.
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Calgary is under an air quality advisory after smoke from northern Saskatchewan moved into the city Monday afternoon, with conditions expected to worsen over the next couple of days.
Environment Canada says some northwest Calgary neighbourhoods are already seeing particulate levels above 100 ppm, equivalent to an air quality index rating of 10 plus. The city's current Air Quality Health Index sits at six — a moderate risk — but forecasters expect conditions to deteriorate later Monday night and into Tuesday.
The smoke is being pushed south by the same low-pressure system that brought heavy rain to the region over the weekend. Meteorologist Kevin Stanfield noted the system is now curling smoke directly over Calgary.
People with respiratory issues are urged to reconsider outdoor activities. Mild symptoms include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest pains or severe cough should seek immediate medical assistance.
