Toronto's air quality ranks worst in Western Hemisphere as Quebec wildfires send smoke south
An air quality index of 86 puts Toronto 19th worst globally Monday morning, but worst in the Americas. The haze from fires in Quebec is expected to linger through Tuesday.
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Wildfire smoke from Quebec has blanketed Toronto with the worst air quality in the entire Western Hemisphere as of Monday morning. With an air quality index of 86, Toronto ranked 19th globally but worst in the Americas on the pollution-tracking site IQAir.
Environment and Climate Change Canada warns that the air quality poses a "moderate" health risk Monday, with similar conditions forecast for Tuesday. The haze could combine with the extreme heat expected this week to create hazardous conditions.
The City of Toronto advises residents to limit outdoor activities during wildfire smoke events and to keep windows closed when possible, or use an air filter to reduce indoor air pollution. Poor air quality and wildfire smoke can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing, headaches, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
