New air quality advisory for Calgary due to wildfire smoke
On Wednesday evening, ash could be seen falling from the sky in parts of Calgary
Published Jul 25, 2024 • Last updated 10 hours ago • 1 minute read
Environment Canada has once again issued an air quality advisory for the city of Calgary due to wildfire smoke.
Around 4:30 a.m. Thursday morning, Environment Canada issued a weather alert for Calgary, warning that wildfire smoke is causing, or expected to cause, poor air quality for the area.
The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) forecast for the city showed conditions were expected to reach 10+ on the scale Thursday, representing a potentially very high health risk.
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With these heavy smoke conditions, everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health, the national weather agency said in its air quality advisory. The fine particles in wildfire smoke are of particular concern.
On Wednesday evening, ash could be seen falling from the sky in parts of Calgary.
Air quality forecast for Calgary as of 6 a.m., July 25, 2024. Screen capture/Environment CanadaPeople more likely to be affected by wildfire smoke — including seniors, pregnant women, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition — should avoid strenuous activities outdoors, the weather agency said.
For those who must spend time outdoors, it is recommended to use a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator-type mask to reduce exposure to the fine particles in the smoke, said Environment Canada in its air quality advisory.
“Consider rescheduling or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events,” the weather service said.
Symptoms of exposure to smoke can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough.
“Listen to your body and if you experience symptoms, reduce or stop outdoor activities,” Environment Canada said. “If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.”
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed if possible, its statement said.
The wildfire smoke covering Calgary comes from fires burning in the northern half of the province. As of Thursday morning, there are 175 wildfires burning in Alberta, with 54 deemed out of control.
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