Wildfire smoke has returned to the region today, bringing very poor air quality and low visibility across Northumberland, Prince Edward, Hastings, and Lennox and Addington counties.
Environment Canada is advising everyone, especially seniors, pregnant women, and young children, to cancel outdoor events and keep windows tightly closed.
Staff Meteorologist Kevin Williams:
“Currently, the air quality in our region has improved (as of early Friday morning), however, it is going to deteriorate again, and we expect an increase in haze and smoke as we head through the day and night. Showers with the front tomorrow (Saturday) will start to cleanse the air once again, and by Sunday, behind the front and with a shift in the wind, the air mass is expected to be clearer once again, but with more smoke and haze possibly in the future next week.”
If you must go outside, health officials recommend limiting your time outdoors and wearing a well-fitted respirator mask to protect your lungs.
Environment Canada Air Quality Warning Below:
Air quality conditions have improved early this morning.
However smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario will return later today or this evening resulting in very poor air quality and reduced visibility. Poor air quality may persist into the weekend.
As smoke levels increase, health risks increase.
Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events. You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.
More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.
If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.
When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.
Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke.
Actions can include using the highest quality air filter that your ventilation system can handle and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.
