Edmonton lifts poor air quality alert as wildfire smoke clears; heat response extended

The City of Edmonton has lifted its poor air quality response as wildfire smoke conditions improve, but is extending its extreme heat response through Sunday at 9 a.m.

The poor air quality response ended Thursday at 9 a.m., having been in effect since Monday when wildfire smoke pushed the Air Quality Health Index to high-risk levels. The city's extreme heat response, however, continues based on the latest weather forecasts.

During the heat response, residents can cool off at city facilities including libraries, pools, and recreation centres. The city is providing 24-hour access to 29 water stations attached to fire hydrants, and peace officers continue distributing bottled water to vulnerable people. Bottled water and N95 masks remain available at city facilities throughout the summer.

The city activates its poor air quality response when the Air Quality Health Index is forecast to reach seven or higher for at least two consecutive days. The heat response is triggered when daytime temperatures of 29°C or higher are expected for at least three straight days. Anyone concerned about someone struggling in the heat or smoke can call 211 and press 3 for the Crisis Diversion team, or 911 in an emergency.