Northeastern Ontario under air quality advisories due to forest fires

Smoke plumes from Quebec are affecting air quality in northern Ontario, Environment Canada said Saturday.

Air quality advisories have been issued across northeastern Ontario, including areas around Greater Sudbury, Timmins, Sault Ste. Marie and North Bay.

‘High levels of air pollution have developed due to smoke from forest fires,” the weather forecaster said in a special air quality statement.

“Smoke plumes from forest fires over Quebec will result in deteriorated air quality today. Poor air quality may persist into tonight for some areas.”

More information can be found here.

“Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations,” Environment Canada said.

Especially at risk are people with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke.

“Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you or someone in your care feel unwell,” the statement said.

“Be sure to check on people in your care and those around you who may be more susceptible to smoke.”