Ottawa

Air quality advisory for Ottawa area to last until Monday

Environment Canada says smoke from forest fires that arrived Saturday afternoon could now linger until early Monday morning.

Forest fire smoke could pose health risks, says Environment Canada

A cyclist rides his bike while wearing a mask due to the poor air quality in the aftermath of wildfires in Ontario and Quebec.
A file photo of smoky conditions in Ottawa from 2023. Environment Canada says people should expect forest fire smoke to linger over the city this August long weekend. (Sean Kilpatrick/The Canadian Press)

Ottawa and the wider area will be experiencing poor air quality due to smoke from forest fires this weekend, Environment Canada says.

The special weather statement was issued at 10:48 a.m. Saturday. 

The agency's weather forecast says the city may see smoke arrive Saturday afternoon and it could last until Monday morning.

The air quality statement comes as the city hosts its first Ironman triathlon Sunday, with hundreds of racers expected to participate.

For the latest conditions and the map of affected areas, click here.

The weather agency adds that smoke may persist for much of the weekend for parts of southern Ontario.

The smoke may pose health risks, Environment Canada said, advising people in affected areas to limit time outdoors and to consider rescheduling outdoor activities. 

Ottawa was placed under another air quality advisory earlier this week.