Poor air quality, moderate risk level still affecting Ottawa-Gatineau
Risk has lowered since Friday, when air quality index reached highest level
The Ottawa-Gatineau region is still experiencing poor air quality from drifting wildfire smoke, prompting Environment Canada to maintain its special air quality statements into Saturday afternoon.
The agency first issued the statements for most of the region on Friday at 7 a.m., which later expanded to cover all of eastern Ontario and western Quebec.
As of 3 p.m. Saturday, the special air quality statement for Kingston, Ont., had been lifted. The advisories that remain in place in Ontario stretch as far south as Smiths Falls and east all the way to Georgian Bay.
In western Quebec, the statement stretches east along the Quebec-U.S. border and north stopping short of Val-d'Or.
The Air Quality Health Index for downtown Ottawa was five, or moderate risk, on Saturday as of 3 p.m. On Friday, it had risen to the highest level Environment Canada issues (10+, or very high).
Saturday's indexes for other eastern Ontario communities were, as of 3 p.m.:
- Five, or moderate risk, in Kingston.
- Five, or moderate risk, in Belleville.
- Five, or moderate risk, in Cornwall.
As of 3 p.m. on Saturday, Environment Canada was reporting that conditions would gradually improve overnight but could last into Sunday morning.
The smoke may pose health risks, Environment Canada said, advising people in affected areas to limit time outdoors and to consider rescheduling outdoor activities.
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit also warned of health risks and advised residents to watch for symptoms including:
- Eye, nose and throat irritation.
- Coughing.
- Headaches.
- Dizziness.
- Chest pains.
- Difficulty breathing.
Both agencies said people over 65, pregnant people, children, people with pre-existing health conditions and people who work outdoors are more likely to be impacted by air pollution.
Wildfires are raging across Western Canada, with B.C, Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan all battling blazes.
Air quality warnings were issued from the the coast of B.C. into Labrador on Friday morning and largely remain in place as of 3 p.m. Saturday.
PHOTOS | Ottawa and Gatineau shrouded by smoke Friday