Manitoba

Wildfire smoke prompts air quality advisory for most of Manitoba

A special air quality statement is in effect for most of Manitoba as wildfire smoke leads to poor air quality and reduced visibility.

Winnipeg among communities under special air quality statement Sunday

A smoky sky surrounds buildings downtown.
Smoke in Winnipeg's downtown on May 12. A special air quality statement is in effect for most of Manitoba Sunday as wildfire smoke leads to poor air quality and reduced visibility. (Corentin Mittet-Magnan/Radio-Canada)

A special air quality statement is in effect for most of Manitoba as wildfire smoke leads to poor air quality and reduced visibility.

Environment and Climate Change Canada's statement, issued early Sunday morning, is in effect in parts of northern Manitoba as well as the Interlake region and the province's southeast, including Winnipeg.

The smoke may cause irritation, headaches or a mild cough, the federal agency said. More severe symptoms include wheezing and chest pains.

A map of Manitoba showing a vast swathe of land greyed out.
Environment and Climate Change Canada's statement is in effect in parts of northern Manitoba as well as the Interlake region, and the province's southeast, including Winnipeg. (Environment and Climate Change Canada)

Environment Canada is asking people to limit time outdoors and consider rescheduling open-air activities. Windows and doors should be kept closed as much as possible when indoors, it said.

Find the latest wildfire information at these sources:


Are you an evacuee who needs assistance? Contact Manitoba 211 by calling 211 from anywhere in Manitoba or email 211mb@findhelp.ca.